Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has projected a bold vision for the nation’s economic future, declaring that Nigeria will soon achieve such financial strength that it will be able to lend to other countries.
She made the statement in Ile-Ife, Osun State, where she was honoured with the chieftaincy title Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua during celebrations marking the 10th coronation anniversary of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi. The ceremony drew a large gathering of political leaders, former heads of state, governors, and esteemed traditional rulers from across Nigeria, highlighting both the importance of the title and the Ooni’s enduring influence within and beyond Yorubaland.
Among the dignitaries present were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima, former First Lady Patience Jonathan, Governors Ademola Adeleke, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Dapo Abiodun, as well as former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole. Other notable attendees included ex-Governor Ibikunle Amosun, Lagos Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, Osun Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, and former Osun First Lady Kafayat Oyetola.
Several highly respected traditional rulers also attended, 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. Their presence reinforced the nationwide significance of the event.
After receiving her title, Senator Tinubu expressed gratitude to the Ooni and the people of Ile-Ife. She spoke confidently about Nigeria’s potential, stating:
“Today is not a day for long speeches. I want to thank the people of Ile-Ife, and I also thank the Ooni of Ile-Ife for bestowing such an honour. Nigeria’s joy has come. By 2026, Nigeria will be in prosperity. We will be lending to other nations. It is important to say it here at the source of the Yoruba race that during the administration of President Bola Tinubu, people will wonder how he has been able to achieve such a milestone.”
Earlier, Ooni Ogunwusi commended Senator Tinubu for her continuous support of his throne since his ascension. He also recognized the contributions of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, describing him as a pillar of the palace’s progress.
The Sultan of Sokoto delivered a goodwill message, praying for a long and peaceful reign for the Ooni and urging Nigerians to continue praying for the nation’s leaders.
Governor Ademola Adeleke also praised the Ooni for redefining modern royalty, noting that the monarch has used culture, innovation, and diplomacy to raise the profile of Ile-Ife globally. The governor highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including the upgrade of major roads and the construction of the first-ever flyover in Ile-Ife. He described these initiatives as key steps toward building a more prominent cultural and economic capital for the Yoruba nation, in line with the Ooni’s vision for a progressive Ile-Ife.
The ceremony emphasized the collaboration between traditional authorities, government leaders, and political figures, reflecting a shared commitment to Nigeria’s growth and development. Senator Tinubu’s remarks, delivered at the heart of Yorubaland, projected optimism and confidence in the country’s economic trajectory, signaling a future in which Nigeria may emerge as a regional and global financial power by 2026.
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