The senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has expressed optimism that Nigeria has moved past the most difficult phase of its current challenges, stating that the economic and governance reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu are beginning to deliver positive outcomes.
Daniel made this declaration on Sunday during his family’s 21st Annual Thanksgiving Service held at Abraham’s Tabernacle in Sagamu, Ogun State, where religious leaders, political associates and supporters gathered to offer prayers for the nation.
The former Ogun State governor acknowledged that the reform measures initially imposed significant hardship on citizens but maintained that the country is now witnessing gradual improvements across key indicators.
“First and foremost, we thank God Almighty for His grace. Beyond that, we must also appreciate the President, the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu, for providing an enabling environment for people to thrive,” Daniel said.
He noted that the early phase of the reforms was particularly challenging, especially due to rising inflation, but added that recent developments suggest a steady recovery.
“In recent times, we witnessed significant challenges. At the beginning, inflation was quite high, but we are now beginning to hear that the debt profile is gradually coming down. Despite these difficulties, we remain grateful to God and hopeful that this new year will be an unforgettable one in the annals of our country,” he stated.
Responding to widespread public distrust of politicians, Daniel insisted that not all political leaders are dishonest, urging Nigerians to assess him based on his years of service and public conduct.
“I have been engaged in public service and leadership for over 23 years. If in those years no one has been able to point out a single lie, I have told or anything I said that turned out to be untrue, then Nigerians should judge me accordingly,” he said.
Daniel further expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, declaring that the nation is steadily emerging from its difficulties and pointing to growing spiritual support as a positive sign.
“I have always said that things can only get better. The worst is over. Gradually and steadily, we are seeing positive signs. When you see over 200 clergymen gathered simply to pray for Nigeria, it tells me that we are making progress. I strongly believe this year will be a good one for our nation,” he added.
He also thanked religious leaders and supporters for their prayers, encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful, steadfast and prayerful despite lingering challenges.
Meanwhile, former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ogun State, Senator Ladi Adebutu, also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, urging citizens not to lose hope during the present difficulties facing the nation.
Adebutu said divine intervention would play a crucial role in Nigeria’s recovery, describing God as a source of grace and mercy who would turn the situation around.
“This is a delicate time for the nation, particularly when things are difficult. But God is a God of grace and mercy, and I believe He will minister unto this nation such that things will get better. We should not lose hope; better days are coming,” he said.
Earlier in his sermon, the guest preacher, Reverend Wale Oke, preached from Psalms 50:23 and emphasised the importance of thanksgiving, urging Christians to make it a regular spiritual practice.
Reverend Oke, who is also the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, explained that thanksgiving moves the throne of God, adding that King David experienced abundant blessings because of his consistent praise and gratitude.
The thanksgiving service attracted several eminent personalities, including Chief Kensington Adebutu, former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Sarafa Tunji Isola, Senator Ladi Adebutu and other distinguished guests.
