President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy is recovering from a period of uncertainty, telling Nigerians both at home and abroad that the country has “come out of the dark tunnel.”
Speaking at an exhibition in the United Kingdom as part of his ongoing state visit, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to rebuilding confidence and driving economic growth.
He said, “As I stand before you, I can tell you that we’ve navigated our way out of the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty and past hopelessness toward the bright future we aim to deliver for everyone.”
The president emphasized that his government was elected to restore hope and said that mission remains central to his leadership. He encouraged Nigerians to stay optimistic and focus on the nation’s strengths, assuring them of continued reforms and steady leadership.
Tinubu also expressed skepticism about international credit ratings of African economies, arguing that the continent’s true potential should be defined by its own efforts and direction.
“It is up to us to determine who we are and where we are headed,” he said, urging citizens to embrace the positive aspects of Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
He acknowledged global economic challenges, including instability and declining purchasing power, but called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and resilient.
“Keep your efforts focused and your mindset positive. Let’s move forward together—I assure you, meaningful change will come,” he added.
Reflecting on the exhibition theme, “Nigeria’s Modernism,” Tinubu described it as a tribute to a generation that shaped a distinct national identity beyond colonial influence.
“They chose to define themselves. What I see here reflects the true Nigerian spirit—a people who blend global ideas with the richness of their heritage. This is the Nigeria we are building,” he said.
The visit marks Nigeria’s first state visit to the United Kingdom in nearly 40 years. Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, was received with full ceremonial honours by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.
During the trip, the president also met with UK Prime Minister 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 upgrade Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
Meanwhile, the First Lady held meetings with religious leaders at Lambeth Palace, including representatives of the Church of England, as part of the broader diplomatic and cultural engagements.
