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President Declares Economy Has “Bounced Back” Despite Hardship
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday likened the hardship facing Nigerians under his administration to the pain of a “surgery,” insisting that the sacrifices would yield growth and prosperity.
Speaking at the coronation ceremony of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Tinubu declared that Nigeria’s economy had “turned the corner” and was on the path of recovery.
TJ News Nigeria reports that the President addressed dignitaries and residents gathered in Ibadan, Oyo State, where he assured the public that the current economic challenges were temporary and part of a necessary reform process.
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Tinubu’s Remarks on Economic Recovery
Tinubu, who has implemented sweeping reforms including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, told the gathering that his policies were beginning to restore stability.
“To many of you here present, today I am honoured and I’m very proud 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.
He compared the hardship Nigerians are enduring to a medical operation that is painful but necessary:
“Your suffering is the pain of a painful surgery. But it is now returned to the moment of growth and prosperity waiting for us ahead. Thank you for your perseverance. Thank you for your endurance.”
Olubadan Calls for Creation of Ibadan State
The newly installed Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, seized the occasion to make a political appeal. Speaking in Yoruba after receiving his staff of office, he called on President Tinubu to ensure the creation of Ibadan State before 2027.
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“My people sent me a message to Mr President. Mr President, they said the creation of Ibadan State is their priority,” the monarch stated.
The demand for Ibadan State has been a long-standing agitation among indigenes, who argue that the ancient city deserves its own state due to its size, population, and historical importance.
Governor Makinde’s Tribute
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, also addressed the event. He praised the coronation of Oba Ladoja as a historic milestone for Ibadan and a unifying moment for its people.
“It is a great honour to join in celebrating the coronation and presentation of the Staff of Office to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adewolu Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. The joy and excitement that fill Ibadan today remind us of the importance of upholding our cherished traditions,” Makinde said.
The governor noted that the Olubadan institution remains one of the most respected and enduring traditional leadership structures in Nigeria.
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Political and Economic Implications
Tinubu’s comments come at a time when Nigerians are grappling with record inflation, high food prices, and rising unemployment. While his administration insists that reforms will stabilize the economy, many households continue to struggle.
Analysts say the President’s use of the “surgery” metaphor reflects his attempt to manage public expectations while reinforcing hope in his economic agenda. However, critics argue that the hardship has reached unbearable levels for millions of Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the call for the creation of Ibadan State adds a fresh political demand for the Tinubu administration, which is already facing multiple pressures from regional groups seeking state creation and restructuring.
Key Takeaways
- President Tinubu says Nigeria’s economy has “bounced back” and is moving toward prosperity.
- He likened Nigerians’ hardship to the pain of a “surgery” that will eventually yield recovery.
- The new Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, urged Tinubu to create Ibadan State before 2027.
- Governor Seyi Makinde described the coronation as a source of pride for the people of Ibadan.
