Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said the country is moving toward a future of strong growth and may soon be in a position to lend money to other nations.

She made the remark on Sunday in Ile-Ife, Osun State, after she received the chieftaincy title of Yeye Asiwaju Gbogbo Ile Oodua from the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, during events marking his 10th coronation anniversary.

The ceremony drew top political leaders, former presidents, state governors, and traditional rulers from across the country.

Speaking to the crowd, Mrs Tinubu said Nigeria was entering a new season of progress. She said, “today is not a day for long speeches. I want to thank the people of Ile-Ife. I also thank the Ooni of Ife for bestowing such honour.”

She added, “Nigeria’s joy has come. Those wondering how we want to do it, we will show them how things are being done. By 2026, Nigeria will be in prosperity. We will be lending to other nations.”

She said the expected growth would happen under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. According to her, “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 milestone.”

Earlier, the Ooni of Ife praised Senator Tinubu for her support since he became monarch. He also noted the long-standing role of former President Olusegun Obasanjo in supporting the throne.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar, gave his goodwill message, praying for a long and peaceful reign for the Ooni and urging Nigerians to pray for their leaders so they can guide the country in the right direction.

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, also spoke at the event. He said Oba Ogunwusi had brought a fresh image to Yoruba royalty and had worked to project Ile-Ife as the cultural heart of the Yoruba people.

Adeleke said, “our royal father demonstrated what it means to have an empowered royal father. In the last decade, his majesty has pushed ahead with the branding of Ile-Ife as the cultural capital of the Yoruba people.”

He added that the state government was working closely with the Ooni on this vision. Adeleke said 14 roads had been completed in Ile-Ife, several more were ongoing, and the first flyover in the town was close to completion.