Nigeria’s hardship will soon end, best days are ahead – Ooni of Ife

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has assured Nigerians that the nation’s present economic and social difficulties will soon give way to a new dawn of progress and restoration.

Speaking on Monday in Ile-Ife shortly after moving to his ancestral home for the 2025 Olojo Festival rites, the monarch described the annual celebration as a global symbol of hope, renewal, and divine intervention.

“This Olojo has given us a sample of appreciation. It is a global festival, a festival of thanksgiving. The day that the day comes out across the universe, we celebrate it here in the ancient city of Ile-Ife. It gives us hope that our condition as a nation is turning around,” he told newsmen.

The Ooni, who hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts in navigating Nigeria through what he termed “turbulent waters,” expressed faith that God continues to strengthen leaders in resolving disputes and stabilising governance.

“All the hardship, difficulties, and challenges Nigerians are facing are turning around for good. Between a year and five years from now, we will begin to experience new life, and all lost glory will be restored. This is the dew of hope that change is coming,” he declared.

Oba Ogunwusi urged Nigerians to remain patient, united, and prayerful, stressing that sustainable transformation requires resilience and collective commitment.

He reassured citizens that the economy will bounce back, while opportunities in governance, security, and development will be recovered for the benefit of all.

The monarch also charged leaders at all levels to embrace transparency and accountability, noting that only with sincerity and unity of purpose can Nigeria’s lost glory be restored.

This year’s Olojo Festival, one of the oldest and most spiritually significant festivals of the Yoruba people, drew thousands of tourists, traditional rulers, political leaders, and dignitaries from across the globe.

The festival, which symbolises the creation of the world and the emergence of daylight after primordial darkness, was marked with prayers for peace, prosperity, and stability in Nigeria.