Oba Ladoja Expresses Confidence in Tinubu's Leadership Amid Nigeria's Challenges
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Senator Rasheed Ladoja, has voiced strong support for President Bola Tinubu's administration, highlighting that while Nigeria presents far greater complexities than Lagos State, the President possesses the necessary understanding and capability to steer the nation forward. This endorsement came following a courtesy visit by the former Oyo State governor to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.
Gratitude and Optimism for National Progress
Ladoja explained that his visit was primarily to express gratitude to President Tinubu for attending his coronation ceremony last September. "I have been trying to come since September 26 to thank him for finding the time to attend my coronation," he stated. "I was in Abuja for the Daily Trust Dialogue, so it became an opportunity to come and thank him and also to tell him that we are very happy with what is happening in the country." This gesture underscores the mutual respect between traditional leadership and the federal government.
Tinubu's Governance Style and Lagos Experience
When questioned about President Tinubu's approach to governance, Ladoja pointed to the President's background as a former governor of Lagos State as a key factor shaping his national leadership. "If you know where he's coming from, you know that he knows what he's doing," Ladoja remarked. "He was able to guide Lagos from where it was to where he left it. Nigeria, however, is more complex than a state because not all of us have the same notion of what we want as a country." This observation highlights the diverse challenges inherent in managing a nation as vast and varied as Nigeria.
Economic Reforms and State Finances
Ladoja noted that states currently have access to more financial resources compared to his tenure as governor, which enables them to fulfill their obligations more effectively. He expressed optimism regarding the President's economic reforms, believing they will yield lasting benefits. "By and large, the economy has to be fixed, and it is being fixed," he said. "We hope that by the time he is leaving office in 2031, Nigeria will be in a position that all of us will be proud of." This forward-looking perspective reflects a belief in sustained national improvement under Tinubu's leadership.
Urgent Priorities: Insecurity, Food, and Healthcare
On expectations from the Tinubu administration, Ladoja urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts in addressing critical areas such as food security, healthcare, and insecurity. He described insecurity as the most pressing concern, noting its widespread impact. "We expect the government to work more on food and health. We should have standard hospitals where we can treat our people," he emphasized. "But the major problem we really have now is insecurity. Farmers find it difficult to go to their farms, and it is already spreading to the South."
Overcoming National Challenges
Ladoja acknowledged that fear has disrupted farming and daily economic activities across the country but maintained a hopeful outlook. "I don't think it is insurmountable. By and large, we believe that the President is tackling it correctly now," he asserted. This statement reinforces his confidence in Tinubu's strategic approach to resolving Nigeria's multifaceted issues, from economic hurdles to security threats.
