President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday declared that Nigeria’s season of economic hardship is over, assuring citizens that “a bright light is at the end of the tunnel.”
The President gave the assurance at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, during the historic coronation of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, who became the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.
In a speech that combined royal felicitations with a message of hope, Tinubu likened the nation’s struggles to “a painful surgery,” but maintained that the economy had now entered a phase of “growth and prosperity.”
“Your suffering has been as painful to us as a painful surgery. But the economy has now returned to a moment of growth and prosperity. Thank you for your perseverance, and thank you for your endurance,” Tinubu said.
The coronation, which coincided with Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday, was a landmark event that drew thousands of well-wishers and dignitaries to the ancient city. It also marked the first time a former governor of Oyo State ascended the revered Ibadan throne.
Reflecting on his political journey, Tinubu recalled his famous “Emi lo’kan” campaign pitch delivered in Ibadan before his election.
“I once came to Oke Mopo to seek your support to tell you ‘Emi lo’kan’ (it’s my turn), and now we are there. Thank you very much,” he said.
Paying tribute to the new monarch, Tinubu described Oba Ladoja as a “renowned businessman and political leader whose ascension bridges the gap between modern governance and ancient tradition.”
Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier presented the staff of office to the new Olubadan, cementing his place in history as a leader who straddles both political and traditional authority.
Comments