President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the current hardship in the country is only a temporary phase, likening it to the pain of a necessary surgery that will soon give way to growth and prosperity.
Speaking at Mapo Hall, Ibadan, during the coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, the President acknowledged the economic challenges faced by citizens but insisted that the worst days are over.
“Your suffering is a pain, a pain of a painful surgery. But it is now returning to the moment of growth and prosperity that awaits us ahead. Thank you for your perseverance, endurance, and understanding,” Tinubu said.
The President expressed optimism, declaring that Nigeria’s economy, though fragile, has begun to recover.
“To many of you here present, I’m honoured and proud to bring you the cheering news that the economy has turned the corner. There is a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” he added.
A Day of Tradition and History
Tinubu arrived at the venue around 2:28 pm alongside Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, with other governors from Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti states, as well as members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC).
Earlier in the day, the President also participated in traditional rites at the Labosinde Compound, Oja’ba, Ibadan, where he received the symbolic Akoko leaf.
The coronation of Oba Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, drew dignitaries from across the country. He succeeded the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan, who passed away on July 7, 2025, after just one year on the throne.
The colourful event was graced by top political figures, lawmakers, and prominent monarchs, including:
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The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III
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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade
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The Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Adeoye
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The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi
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The Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan
Also present were former governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, and state legislators, making it a grand convergence of tradition, politics, and culture.
