IBADAN, September 26, 2025 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday declared that Nigeria’s economy has “turned the corner” following the implementation of his administration’s economic reforms, assuring citizens that there is “light at the end of the tunnel.”
The President gave the assurance while attending the historic coronation of his longtime ally, Imperial Majesty Oba (Sen.) Abdul-Rashidi Adewolu Akanmu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland in Oyo State.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their patience, sacrifices, and support during the reform process, which he said is now yielding results.
“Today, I am honoured to bring the cheering news that our economy has turned around and there is now light at the end of the tunnel,” the President stated.
The President also commended Oba Ladoja for his contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, recalling his resilience during an illegal impeachment as governor of Oyo State.
“All the things we started together with great expectations, and the history we shared are coming to pass. I pray that you will live long and be celebrated as one of the rare leaders in history to ascend the throne of your forefathers,” Tinubu added.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State officially presented the new Olubadan with the staff of office and certificate. He hailed the coronation as a unifying moment that has resolved disputes among Ibadan royal families.
“It is a great honour to celebrate the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. All challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over, and the process is now sacrosanct,” Governor Makinde said, while thanking Tinubu for honouring the state with his presence.
In his acceptance speech, Oba Ladoja described his ascension as a journey of destiny and pledged to uphold the responsibilities of the throne.
“It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today. I appreciate God for taking me to the finishing line from the starting point as the Mogaji of the all-inclusive Arusa family, Isale Osi, Ibadan, in 1992 till date,” the monarch said.
The ceremony attracted a host of dignitaries, including Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), and former governors Donald Duke, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Gbenga Daniel.
Also in attendance were the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye. President Tinubu was accompanied by Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu and FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji.
The coronation marked a homecoming for President Tinubu, who described the event as both personal and historic. GMTNewsng
