Abuja, Nigeria – In a candid and hopeful address during an interdenominational church service commemorating Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary, the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, conveyed her belief that her husband, President Bola Tinubu, is not a magician but is steadfastly working to address the challenges facing the nation.
Speaking at the service themed “Christ in you, the hope of glory,” Mrs. Tinubu emphasized that her husband’s administration had inherited a series of longstanding issues but was committed to fixing them without casting blame on previous administrations.
“All we inherited are things that had happened many years ago; we are not here to put blame on any administration but to fix what has been damaged,” she stated, adding, “My husband is not a magician; he is going to work, and I believe and hope that we will have peace in this country; the best is yet to come to us.”
She underscored her husband’s unwavering determination to mend the country’s fractured systems and institutions, highlighting the importance of good governance and calling on the populace to follow the example of Jesus Christ by embodying the fruit of the spirit.
“A Nigeria of abundance has begun, and to be part of the greatness that God has started in the nation, Nigerians must look beyond their current realities and embrace hope anew,” Mrs. Tinubu urged.
The First Lady also urged Nigerians to celebrate the unity that defines the nation’s diversity and keep their hope alive in challenging times.
She reassured the nation that President Tinubu had engaged in extensive consultations with the international community and investors to reposition Nigeria.
In his sermon, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Israel Akanji, expressed optimism about overcoming the numerous challenges facing the country. He appreciated President Tinubu’s Independence Anniversary address to the nation but called on him and other government arms to ensure the fulfillment of promises made to Nigerians.
In response, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume urged Nigerians to remain patient, acknowledging that some issues affecting the country could not be resolved urgently.
“Solution to Nigeria’s complex problems can never be as instant as expected; it will take some time, but measures are already being put in place to address them,” Mr. Akume assured.
As Nigeria marks its 63rd Independence Anniversary, the nation watches with hope as its leaders strive to bring about positive change in the face of myriad challenges.
