President Bola Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s economy has exited what he described as a prolonged “dark tunnel” of uncertainty, expressing optimism about the country’s future while urging citizens to sustain hope and confidence in the ongoing reforms of his administration.
Tinubu gave the assurance on Wednesday in London during an exhibition tagged “Nigeria’s Modernism,” held as part of his two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.
According to him, the administration was elected to “renew everybody’s hope,” adding that his government remained committed to delivering policies that would improve the lives of Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora.
“As I stand before you, I can tell you that we’ve navigated our way out of the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty, the hopelessness of the past, and now we are moving towards the bright future we all desire,” the President said.
Tinubu called on Nigerians to adopt a more positive outlook about the country, stressing that national development would depend on collective belief in Nigeria’s potential and deliberate efforts to shape its global perception.
“It is you and I who must embrace what is positive about Africa, particularly Nigeria. I promise you I’ll continue to be that inspiring leader,” he said.
He added that while global economic volatility and geopolitical tensions were affecting nations worldwide, his administration was focused on strengthening Nigeria’s economic fundamentals and restoring investor confidence.
“I can assure you I am still engaging with global narratives about Africa’s economic rating, and I do not agree with some of them. We must define ourselves and determine where we are headed,” he added.
Tinubu also commended the resilience of Nigerians, noting that despite economic challenges, citizens continue to demonstrate innovation and determination.
Meanwhile, during the visit, Tinubu witnessed the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance and Citi Bank aimed at modernising the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos.
The deal, which is expected to improve port efficiency and boost trade, was signed in London in the presence of senior Nigerian and British officials.
The President also held bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street, where discussions centred on strengthening economic cooperation between both countries.
Tinubu’s visit marks the first Nigerian state visit to the United Kingdom in nearly four decades.
He was received by King Charles III and Queen Camilla with full ceremonial honours, including a state banquet at Windsor Castle.
At the banquet, King Charles praised Nigeria’s contributions to global development and reaffirmed the longstanding ties between both nations.
In a separate engagement, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, interacted with religious leaders at Lambeth Palace, the official residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury.
She met with senior officials of the Church of England, including Bishop Rose Hudson-Wilkin and Bishop Emma Ineson, where discussions focused on interfaith cooperation and social development.
‘Nigeria’s Modernism’ and National Identity
Reflecting on the theme of the exhibition, Tinubu said “Nigeria’s Modernism” symbolises the resilience and creativity of Nigerians, noting that the country’s identity is shaped by a blend of global influence and indigenous heritage.
“This is the Nigeria I know — a people who take the best of the world and infuse it with our own heritage. This is the Nigeria we are all working to build,” he said.
The President’s remarks come amid ongoing economic reforms, as his administration continues to implement measures aimed at stabilising the naira, attracting foreign investment, and boosting economic growth.
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