Governor admits Nigerians going through tough times under Tinubu, assure better days ahead
President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the ongoing social and economic difficulties facing Nigerians, offering assurances that the situation will improve in due course.
Speaking on Monday at the 70th birthday celebration of Pastor Tunde Bakare, Serving Overseer of Citadel Global Community, both leaders addressed the nation’s current hardships, each expressing confidence that solutions are on the horizon, though not immediate.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu emphasized that while the country is facing significant challenges, his government remains committed to finding lasting solutions.
“Yes, times are tough, but there is always light at the end of the tunnel,” he said. “Complex problems cannot be solved overnight; solutions are a process, but we are on the right track.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who also spoke at the event, echoed similar sentiments, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and patient as the government works to navigate these difficult times.
Calling on citizens to pray for the country, he praised the current leadership as “tough men” who are determined to see the nation through its struggles.
The celebration, which took place at the Citadel Global Community in Lagos, was attended by several prominent figures, including former Nigerian Heads of State and Governors. Notable attendees included General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), represented by Evangelist Austin Kemie; Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos); Deputy Governor of Lagos, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and former Governors Olusegun Osoba (Ogun), Obong Attah (Akwa Ibom), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Gbenga Daniel (Ogun), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Nasir El-Rufai (Kaduna), and Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), among others.
Tinubu took a moment to honor Pastor Bakare, describing him as a spiritual leader who has not only inspired his followers but has also made a significant impact on the country as a whole.
“Pastor Bakare has been a tireless advocate for truth and justice,” said Tinubu, “leaving an indelible mark on this nation and its people.”
As the country continues to grapple with various challenges, the leaders’ remarks served as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, prayer, and collective effort in overcoming adversity.
said: “We are here to celebrate a true man of God, a most precious human being. It gives me great joy to honour a man whose life has been an embodiment of passion, integrity and an unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness. PTB has been a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless in our society.
“His decades of service and dedication, principles of honesty, transparency, and fairness have been in the respect and admiration of many across this nation. His life journey reflects our commitment not just to spiritual growth, but also to the social and political development of our country.
“I acknowledge your relentless passion for better Nigeria, a country where equal justice and good government prevails. This celebration is a testament to a life of strength and courage, of powerful messages and fearless advocacy, deep volumes of your dedication to lifting humanity.
“It is these values that allow you to make such a difference. As you unveil your token of growth, the vast but definitely not the least, we look forward to gaining insights into the endless experiences that have shaped you into the formidable figure we see today.”
Sanwo-Olu, in his address, stated that: “We that are in public service, we need all your prayers. It’s tough times, but you see, we are also tough men, and we know that at the end of the tunnel, there will be a bright phase.”
On the celebrant, the governor said PTB was not just a father to all, noting: “He is a man that is completely detribalised. He is a man that, with all the complexities of understanding people, stands up for fairness, equity and justice. There’s still a whole lot that God is still going to use you for, not only to this nation, but to the world. We thank God for who you are. You are a vessel of God.”
