Three years after “Emi Lo Kan” Tinubu returns to Ogun for landmarks commissioning

By Adejoke Adeleye/Ogun

In a visit steeped in both political nostalgia and developmental milestones, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to arrive in Ogun State today, Saturday, April 4, 2026.

This visit marks a significant return to the state where in June 2022 President Tinubu as All Progressive Congress (APC) Presidential aspirant boldly declared that it is his turn to be the President of Nigeria.

In January 25th, 2023, which makes it three years ago during the 2023 campaign, he delivered his now-historic “Emi Lo Kan” speech that redefined the trajectory of Nigerian politics.

The President’s visit, originally scheduled for earlier this week on the 2nd of April 2026, was briefly postponed allowing him to visit Jos, Plateau State to commiserate with victims of recent attacks a move that underscored his administration’s current focus on national security.

In January 2023, when then as a presidential candidate Tinubu stood at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, he spoke of a “Renewed Hope” for Nigeria. Returning now as President, his itinerary in the Gateway State is less about political oratory and more about commissioning major infrastructure projects that align with that vision.

The centerpiece of the visit is the Gateway International Cargo Airport in Iperu.

Also, The President will officially flag off operations at the facility, which is designed to position Ogun State as a premier aviation and logistics hub in West Africa.

The inauguration of two newly acquired commercial aircraft under the state’s aviation initiative, Gateway Air, in partnership with ValueJet, commissioning of the reconstructed Sapade–Ilishan Road, which will be officially renamed the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Expressway.

Launch of 1,000 electric bikes under the state’s EV mobility initiative and the inspection of agricultural tractors to boost food security.

Inauguration of the new Federal Operations Unit of the Nigeria Customs Service and the handover of 80 security vehicles to strengthen the state’s safety architecture.

To Governor Dapo Abiodun and the people of Ogun state, hosting the President is a comprehensive showcase of strategic investments.

The President’s return is a moment to weigh the promises of 2023 against the realities of 2026. While the nation continues to navigate economic reforms, the projects being unveiled in Ogun represent the tangible “dividends of democracy” that the President promised during his hard-fought campaign.

“Three years ago, he came seeking a mandate. Tomorrow, he returns to see how that mandate is being used to build the future”.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu is expected to arrive at the Gateway International Airport at approximately 12:00 PM, where he will be received by Governor Abiodun, traditional rulers which includes the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Micheal Adedotun Gbadebo, other prominent traditional rulers and top APC stakeholders.