Nigeria Gradually Recovering Under Tinubu, Worst Period Over — Gbenga Daniel

By: Israel Adeleke

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that a former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic outlook, declaring that the country is steadily recovering under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and that the worst period of hardship is over.

OTN News further reports as gathered that Daniel made the assertion on Sunday during the annual family thanksgiving service held at Abraham Tabernacle in Sagamu, Ogun State, where he commended the Tinubu administration for what he described as bold and necessary economic reforms aimed at stabilising the nation.

According to the senator, policies such as the flotation of the naira, the removal of fuel subsidy and renewed efforts to tackle insecurity are already beginning to reposition the country on a stronger economic footing, despite the present difficulties faced by citizens.

“First and foremost, we thank God Almighty for His preservation. We must also thank the President and Commander-in-Chief for providing the enabling environment and the time to move the nation forward,” Daniel said.

He noted that although inflation had risen sharply in recent times, emerging indicators suggest that it is beginning to ease, while government actions to curb insecurity across parts of the country are yielding positive results.

“Despite these difficulties, we must continue to thank God Almighty, and we hope that this new year will be an unforgettable one in our country. Nigeria, as I have said before, can only get better. The worst is over. I believe that gradually and steadily, things will continue to improve,” he added.

Daniel also underscored the role of prayers in confronting national challenges, describing the gathering of more than 200 clergymen at the thanksgiving service as a symbol of unity, progress and collective commitment to Nigeria’s wellbeing.

Beyond economic issues, the former governor lamented what he described as a growing trust deficit in Nigerian politics, noting that many citizens are quick to assume that all politicians are dishonest.

“We know that it is the season of politics, and some Nigerians often do not appreciate politicians. You have always believed that all politicians are thieves, so whenever we step forward, you think we are spinning lies,” he said.

Daniel, however, insisted that some leaders still uphold the values of selfless service exemplified by the late sage and first Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whose legacy, he said, remains a guiding light.

Highlighting his contributions to socio-economic development, the senator listed empowerment initiatives including the distribution of motorcycles, grinding machines, freezers and sewing machines, facilitation of road construction and borehole projects, as well as the sponsorship of free eye surgeries for more than 4,000 residents across Ogun State.

He pledged to continue complementing government efforts at all levels to improve the welfare and living conditions of Nigerians.

OTN News observes that the thanksgiving service attracted several prominent personalities from across the country, including lottery magnate Sir Adebukola Kensington; Mrs Bola Obasanjo, wife of former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafadeen Tunji Ishola; and the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ogun State, Oladipupo Adebutu.

Others in attendance were NADECO chieftains Chief Ayo Opadokun and Senator Femi Okurounmu; Senator Musiliu Obanikoro; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro; former Minister of State for Health, Dr Olorunmbe Mamora; and traditional rulers from various parts of Ogun State.

Speaking with journalists at the event, Adebutu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful in the face of current economic challenges, expressing confidence that the country is on a path to recovery and that better days lie ahead.