President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians that the country will overcome the challenges of banditry and terrorism, expressing confidence in ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.
The president gave the assurance on Saturday while speaking at the inauguration of the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, located in Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State.
The event also featured the unveiling of state-owned aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the state’s infrastructure development.
Addressing attendees, Tinubu stressed that Nigeria is on a renewed path of growth and transformation.
He attributed this progress to key reforms across critical sectors of the economy, which he said have begun to restore investor confidence and reposition the country for long-term prosperity.
“We will win over banditry and terrorism. I gave you the assurance that we will invest more in our people.
”Thank God for our youths, they are committed, brilliant and working hard. Nigeria, our country, is resolved to be great and is on the path to greatness once again,” the president said.
He also praised the vision behind the airport project, describing it as an economic hub capable of driving development within the region.
Tinubu commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for his leadership and commitment to national development.
“In less than seven years, you, Dapo Abiodun, have demonstrated commitment, vision, and patriotism to grow Nigeria.
”We celebrate your contribution to national development. I have no regrets for whatever we have done with you,” he stated.
The president also highlighted the effective use of increased federal allocations by state governments, noting that such resources are being channeled into impactful projects that benefit citizens.
He congratulated the people of Ogun State for supporting an administration delivering measurable results.
Emphasising the people-focused nature of his policies, Tinubu said his administration remained committed to correcting past economic challenges and repositioning Nigeria on the global stage.
“The Lord is liberating Nigeria from past mismanagement. We are back as a nation, well respected and highly recognised,” he added.
The ceremony drew several prominent figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who described the airport as a landmark achievement.
Reflecting on his experience, Obasanjo noted that the facility has significantly reduced travel time to his hometown.
“I’ve landed here from Abuja, and it took me 45 minutes to reach my home at least 25 minutes shorter than if I had landed in Lagos.
”I want to thank our governor for doing us proud. I am happy to witness this historic occasion,” he said.
Also speaking, Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the federal government’s reforms, noting that they have helped states manage financial obligations, including salary payments.
He also praised the Ogun State government for its prudent use of resources.
Governor Abiodun, in his remarks, described Tinubu’s presence at the event as symbolic and encouraging.
He credited the president’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” with boosting Nigeria’s attractiveness to investors and strengthening confidence in the economy.
The governor outlined achievements recorded during his administration, including extensive road construction, housing development, healthcare improvements, and energy projects.
According to him, these initiatives have positioned Ogun State as one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing economies.
He cited key infrastructure such as the Bola Tinubu Expressway and the Gateway Medical Centre of Excellence, alongside agricultural and energy projects, as evidence of deliberate policies aimed at enhancing economic growth and improving living standards.
The well-attended ceremony featured governors, ministers, and top government officials, underscoring the national significance of the airport project and its expected impact on regional connectivity and economic expansion.
