President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed gratitude to Nigerians for their resilience amid the economic difficulties brought about by his administration’s reforms since May 29, 2023.
Speaking on Friday at the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, held at Mapo Hall in Ibadan, the president likened the hardship to the “pain of a painful surgery,” while assuring citizens that brighter days are ahead.
“To many of you here present, I’m honoured to give you the cheering news that the economy has turned the corner. There is a bright light at the end of the tunnel,” Tinubu said. “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.”
He thanked Nigerians for their patience, perseverance, and understanding, noting that the reforms were designed to stabilize the economy and lay a strong foundation for lasting development.
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who presented the Staff of Office to Oba Ladoja, described the coronation as a historic moment for Ibadanland. The new Olubadan succeeded Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who passed away in July 2025.
The ceremony attracted a wide range of dignitaries, including former governors, federal and state lawmakers, members of the Federal Executive Council, and top traditional rulers such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, and the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan. Governors from Ondo, Osun, and Ekiti states were also in attendance.
