Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, the Oluwo of Iwoland, has delivered a resounding endorsement of President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, characterizing him as a transformative figure whose emergence occurs only once in a millennium. In a statement released on Thursday, the monarch lauded Tinubu as Nigeria’s greatest leader, emphasizing his unparalleled political independence and unwavering commitment to enacting reforms that will pave the way for the nation’s future prosperity. The Oluwo drew a parallel between Tinubu’s leadership and that of Abraham Lincoln, the American president who steered the United States through a tumultuous period of transformation, suggesting that Tinubu’s actions, while currently challenging, will ultimately yield a brighter future for Nigeria.
The Oluwo underscored Tinubu’s unique political standing, highlighting the fact that, unlike many Nigerian leaders who owe their ascent to powerful political patrons, Tinubu operates without the constraints of a godfather. This independence, the monarch argued, empowers Tinubu to make bold decisions that prioritize the nation’s long-term interests. He declared that Tinubu “fears no one except God” and is fully in command, predicting a successful tenure for the president. This autonomy, according to the Oluwo, has enabled Tinubu to implement groundbreaking policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the granting of autonomy to local governments, the establishment of regional commissions, and the introduction of student loans.
Addressing the current economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, the Oluwo framed these challenges as an inevitable part of the reform process, asserting that enduring temporary hardship is necessary to reap the rewards of long-term success. He drew parallels to other nations that have undergone similar periods of economic pain on their path to economic freedom. The monarch’s message was one of reassurance, urging Nigerians to maintain their faith in Tinubu’s vision and to recognize that the current struggles are a necessary precursor to a more prosperous future.
In a striking demonstration of his confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, the Oluwo called for the president to be “cloned,” highlighting the rarity and value of his leadership qualities. He described Tinubu’s leadership as a “once in a blue moon” phenomenon, underscoring the president’s unique vision and capabilities. Beyond his praise for Tinubu, the Oluwo also addressed the Nigerian youth, urging them to diversify their education by incorporating vocational skills to better equip themselves for the evolving job market and economic landscape. This advice reflects the monarch’s recognition of the need for adaptability and preparedness in a rapidly changing world.
The Oluwo’s pronouncements come at a crucial juncture in Tinubu’s presidency, as his administration undertakes significant reforms that have elicited both applause and criticism. The monarch firmly positioned himself in the camp of those who support the reforms, arguing that they are essential for securing Nigeria’s future. He portrayed Tinubu as a courageous leader confronting the entrenched self-serving forces that have long hindered Nigeria’s progress. The Oluwo expressed unwavering confidence that Tinubu’s efforts will ultimately guide the nation towards prosperity.
The Oluwo’s emphatic endorsement of President Tinubu paints a picture of a leader who, in his view, possesses the vision, courage, and independence to steer Nigeria towards a brighter future. The monarch’s comparison of Tinubu to Abraham Lincoln, his emphasis on Tinubu’s lack of a political godfather, and his call for the president to be “cloned” all serve to underscore the high regard in which he holds Tinubu’s leadership. While acknowledging the current economic challenges, the Oluwo framed them as temporary setbacks on the path to long-term prosperity, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of the reforms being implemented. His message to the youth further emphasizes the importance of adapting to the changing economic landscape, highlighting the need for a diversified skill set to thrive in the future. The Oluwo’s statement, therefore, serves not only as a strong endorsement of President Tinubu but also as a call for national unity and perseverance in the face of current difficulties.
