Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed strong optimism about the nation’s future, stating that the country is on the threshold of a remarkable economic transformation. She projected that in the near future, Nigeria would become prosperous enough to extend financial support to other nations.
Senator Tinubu made the declaration on Sunday, December 7, in Ile-Ife, Osun State, after she was honoured with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua. The conferment formed part of the grand celebrations marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
The ceremony attracted an impressive assemblage of political heavyweights and traditional rulers. Among the dignitaries were former President Olusegun Obasanjo; the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima; former First Lady, Patience Jonathan; and Governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun). Also present were ex-Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole; former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun; Lagos Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; Lagos Assembly Speaker, Mudashiru Obasa; Osun Deputy Governor, Kola Adewusi; and former Osun First Lady, Kafayat Oyetola.
Traditional rulers graced the event as well, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; the Orangun of Ila, Oba Abdulwahab Oyedotun; and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
“Nigeria’s Joy Has Arrived” – First Lady
In a heartfelt address delivered in both Yoruba and English, Senator Tinubu expressed deep gratitude to the Ooni and the people of Ile-Ife for the honour bestowed upon her.
She proclaimed:
“Nigeria’s joy has come. Those who doubt how we will achieve it will soon see results. By 2026, Nigeria will be thriving, and we will be in a position to lend to other countries.”
She emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration would accomplish feats that many currently find unimaginable. According to her, the progress to come will surprise even the harshest skeptics.
Ooni, Sultan, and Governors Speak
The Ooni of Ife praised the First Lady for her consistent support since the beginning of his reign. He also acknowledged former President Obasanjo for his longstanding relationship with the palace.
In his goodwill message, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, prayed for the Ooni’s continued impactful reign and encouraged Nigerians to offer sustained prayers for their leaders, stressing that the country’s stability depends on collective support.
Adeleke: Ooni Has Elevated Yoruba Heritage
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke lauded the Ooni as a visionary royal figure who has successfully projected Yoruba culture and tradition to the global stage. According to him, the monarch’s economic strength and far-reaching influence have modernized the perception of traditional leadership.
Adeleke also highlighted the state government’s efforts in Ile-Ife, noting that 14 roads have already been completed, with more underway. He added that the state is close to delivering the first-ever flyover in the cradle of Yoruba civilization, aligning with the Ooni’s cultural and developmental aspirations.
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