President Bola Tinubu has once again addressed the nation’s ongoing economic challenges, likening the current hardship to the pain of surgery, with the promise of eventual recovery and prosperity.
Speaking in Ibadan on Thursday during the coronation of former Oyo State governor, Rashidi Ladoja, as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tinubu reassured Nigerians that the worst is over.
“There is light at the end of the tunnel. Your suffering is the pain of a painful surgery, but we have turned the corner, and prosperity awaits,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to the people of Ibadan for their support during the 2023 presidential election and acknowledged their resilience amid his administration’s economic reforms.
Since taking office in May 2023, President Tinubu has rolled out sweeping economic policies, including the controversial removal of the fuel subsidy.
While the move was intended to stabilize the economy, it has led to a sharp rise in fuel prices, transportation costs, and food inflation, deepening hardship for many citizens.
Critics argue the reforms have worsened poverty, while supporters maintain they are necessary for long-term economic recovery.
President Tinubu was in Ibadan to attend the coronation of Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who officially became the 44th Olubadan following the death of Oba Owolabi Olakulehin on July 7, 2025.
Tinubu arrived in the city at around 2:25 pm, accompanied by Governors Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), and Ademola Adeleke (Osun).
He was received by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde before heading to Mapo Hall, the venue of the coronation ceremony.
At the event, Tinubu praised the new monarch, calling him “a rare gem of history” and praying for a long and impactful reign.
“It’s a great honour for me to witness your coronation. All the things you started and the history we’ve shared make this moment very special,” Tinubu said.
Governor Makinde presented Oba Ladoja with the staff of office in front of a large crowd of dignitaries and traditional rulers.
Notable guests included former governors Donald Duke, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso.
Traditional rulers in attendance included the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III
The event was heavily secured by operatives from the DSS, the Nigerian Army, and other security agencies.
