Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria’s economy has emerged from a period of uncertainty, telling Nigerians at home and abroad that the country has “navigated our way out of the dark tunnel”.
Speaking at an exhibition in the United Kingdom during his ongoing state visit, Tinubu said his administration remains committed to restoring hope and driving economic recovery.
“As I stand before you, I can tell you that we’ve navigated our way out of the dark tunnel, the tunnel of economic uncertainty, the hopelessness of the past, but the bright future that we want to bring to each and every one of you. It is my commitment, even if I have a low adrenaline before I got here, but since you resolved only to renew my mandate, nothing else more joyful than what you are doing,” he said.
The president reiterated that his government was elected “to renew everybody’s hope,” adding that the vision continues to resonate with many Nigerians. He urged citizens to focus on the country’s strengths and maintain optimism, promising sustained leadership and reforms.
“I can assure you I’m still debating what the credit rating is saying of African economy, and I disagree. I put that in the Financial Times confidently. But the challenge is not about the people surrounding the industry. It is about us generating those indices. It is with our own determination to say who we are and where we are headed,” he said.
“It is you and I who must embrace what is positive about Africa, particularly Nigeria, and I promise you I’ll continue to be that inspiring leader.
“As we are navigating the world without borders, we are seeing conflict here and there. And we see the volatility in the economy and the purchasing power of the people being eroded. Keep your efforts and your heart in shape, positive direction. Keep the hope in your body and soul. Let’s do it together. I promise you the changes will be here.”
Tinubu also reflected on the exhibition theme, “Nigeria’s Modernism,” describing it as a celebration of a generation that redefined national identity beyond colonial influence.
“They chose instead to define themselves. As I walk through this hall, I see the true spirit of Nigeria. I see a people, people who take the best of the world in techniques and infuse them with the ancient, unbreakable ribbon of our own heritage. This is the Nigeria I know. This is the Nigeria we are all hoping to build,” he added.
The visit marks Nigeria’s first state visit to the UK in nearly four decades. Tinubu, accompanied by Oluremi Tinubu, was received with ceremonial honours by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.
During the visit, he also held talks with Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street and witnessed the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance, led by Wale Edun, and Citibank to modernise Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Meanwhile, the First Lady engaged with religious leaders at Lambeth Palace, including representatives of the Church of England, as part of the broader diplomatic and cultural engagements during the visit.
