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"Times Are Tough, But Brighter Days Ahead," Tinubu and Sanwo-Olu Tell Nigerians

By Achimi Muktar

In the midst of Nigeria’s ongoing social and economic difficulties, President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have reassured Nigerians that better days are coming. Both leaders acknowledged the challenges facing the nation but emphasized that the current hardships will give way to brighter times in the near future.

Speaking at the 70th birthday celebration of Pastor Tunde Bakare, Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community, Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, admitted that the country is going through tough times. He urged Nigerians to remain patient, likening the process of finding lasting solutions to Nigeria’s complex issues to brewing good coffee—not instant, but worth the wait.

“The President acknowledges that times are hard, but at the end of it all, there is always light,” Akume said on behalf of Tinubu. “Solutions to complex problems can never be as instant as coffee, but we are on the right track.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu echoed Tinubu’s sentiments, calling for prayers and support for public servants. He emphasized that while the road ahead may be difficult, the country is led by tough leaders who are working hard to navigate the challenges.

“We in public service need all your prayers. These are tough times, but we are also tough men, and we know that at the end of the tunnel, there will be light,” Sanwo-Olu remarked, speaking at the event.

The birthday celebration, held at the Citadel Global Community in Lagos, drew a host of dignitaries, including former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, and several former state governors, as well as traditional rulers such as the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

A Tribute to a Man of Integrity

Both leaders used the occasion to pay glowing tributes to Pastor Tunde Bakare. President Tinubu, in his message, praised Bakare for his decades of commitment to justice, righteousness, and his relentless advocacy for a better Nigeria. Tinubu described him as a beacon of hope and a fearless voice for the voiceless.

“We are here to celebrate a true man of God, a man whose life has been an embodiment of passion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to justice and righteousness,” Tinubu said. “PTB has been a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless in our society.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu lauded Bakare’s contributions to nation-building, describing him as a detribalized leader who consistently advocates for fairness, equity, and justice.

“He is a man that, with all the complexities of understanding people, stands up for fairness, equity, and justice. God still has more to use him for, not just in Nigeria, but globally,” Sanwo-Olu added.

A Legacy of Impact

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, where Bakare hails from, praised him as a trailblazer, calling his life “one of purpose and significance.” Abiodun expressed gratitude for Bakare’s wisdom and spiritual guidance, noting that the pastor has mentored many and left an indelible mark on those he has touched.

“He stands as a testament to Ogun State’s legacy of trailblazers,” Abiodun said. “PTB has touched many lives.”

Bakare’s Appeal to Nigerians

In his vote of thanks, Pastor Bakare used the occasion to appeal to Nigerians to prioritize the nation’s well-being over individual gain. He urged the audience to think of how they can contribute to the betterment of Nigeria, rather than what they can take from it.

“Let us think of the nation first. Let’s be less concerned about what we can get out of this nation and more about how to make it a better place to live,” Bakare urged.

As Nigeria grapples with economic reforms and social challenges, the message from Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, and Bakare is clear: resilience, prayer, and a shared commitment to the nation's future will see the country through its current difficulties.