First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has predicted a rapid shift in Nigeria’s economic fortunes, confidently stating that the country will achieve a level of prosperity by 2026 that will enable it to lend money to other nations.
The prediction was made on Sunday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, shortly after she was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua, an event commemorating the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.
A Prophecy of Prosperity
Speaking at the heavily attended ceremony, Senator Tinubu commended the Ooni for the honor bestowed upon her and cast a vision of economic strength for the country under her husband’s leadership.
“Nigeria’s joy has come; those wondering how we want to do it, we will show them how things are being done,” she said in a mixture of Yoruba and English. “By 2026, Nigeria will be in prosperity; we will be lending to other nations.”
She emphasized the significance of making the declaration at the source of the Yoruba race, noting that during President Bola Tinubu’s administration, people would “wonder how he has able to achieve such milestone.”
High-Profile Gathering
The ceremony was a massive political and traditional convergence, reflecting the Ooni’s influence. Dignitaries present included former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President’s wife Nana Shettima, former First Lady Patience Jonathan, and numerous sitting governors, including Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).
Prominent traditional rulers also attended, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye.
Ooni and Governor’s Remarks
In his address, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Ogunwusi, praised Senator Tinubu for her consistent support since he ascended the throne a decade ago.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke lauded the Ooni for bringing a “touch of class to royalty” and rebranding the Yoruba tradition globally. Adeleke pledged that the state government would remain a staunch ally to the Ooni, noting that his administration has already embarked on significant infrastructure upgrades in Ile-Ife, including the completion of 14 roads and an ongoing flyover project.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, offered goodwill and prayed for a long reign for the Ooni, urging prayers for the nation’s leaders to guide the people in the right direction.
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