President Bola Tinubu on Friday arrived in Lagos on a working visit after attending the coronation of the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, in Oyo State.
Tinubu’s visit to Lagos comes ahead of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, which the presidency said would be marked in a low-key manner.
While in Lagos, Tinubu will meet with players in the private sector and senior government officials. He will also commission the remodelled National Theatre, renamed the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts.
According to the presidency, Tinubu will travel to Imo State on Tuesday to inaugurate projects executed by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Earlier at the coronation ceremony of Oba Ladoja on Friday, Tinubu described his visit as a “homecoming” and hailed the monarch for his role in Nigeria’s democracy and as a former governor.
The president also reassured Nigerians that his administration’s economic reforms had begun to yield positive results.
“Today, I am honoured to bring the cheering news that our economy has turned around and there is now light at the end of the tunnel,” Tinubu said.
He commended the patience, support and sacrifices of Nigerians over the past two years.
Addressing the new Olubadan, Tinubu said: “All the things we started together with great expectations, and the history we shared are coming to pass. I pray that you will live long and be celebrated as one of the rare leaders in history to ascend the throne of your forefathers.”
While presenting the staff of office and a certificate to the new Olubadan, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, said Ladoja’s coronation had ended the disputes among families regarding who occupies traditional thrones.
“It is a great honour to celebrate the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. All sons and daughters of the state at home and in the diaspora are proud of this historic moment. We must uphold our tradition.
“I also want to say all challenges associated with the Ibadan traditional institution are now over, and put behind us. This means that the process is now sacrosanct,” the governor said.
Makinde thanked Tinubu for taking the time to honour the traditional ruler and the people.
“There is no more rancour about the kingship in Ibadanland, ” the governor added.
Oba Ladoja said his ascension to the throne reflected the race of life and place of destiny.
“I accept not just the paraphernalia of office but also the responsibilities attached to it.
“I want to sincerely appreciate my brother and friend, President Bola Tinubu, for honouring me and all the sons and daughters of Ibadanland with his visit here today.
“It is not by power, influence, connection, or money that we are here today. I appreciate God for taking me to the finishing line from the starting point as the Mogaji of the all-inclusive Arusa family, Isale Osi, Ibadan, in 1992 till date,” he added.
The coronation drew several dignitaries, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III. Governors in attendance included Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, and Ademola Adeleke of Osun, alongside former governors Donald Duke, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Ibikunle Amosun, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, and Gbenga Daniel.
