Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, representing Ogun East and former governor of Ogun State, has commended President Bola Tinubu for implementing bold economic reforms aimed at improving governance and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians.
Speaking at the 4th edition of the Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival, held at Abraham’s Tabernacle Ecumenical Worship Centre in Sagamu, Daniel urged Nigerians to focus on the long-term benefits of these reforms rather than the short-term challenges. He emphasized that while the economic measures may cause temporary discomfort, the broader picture reflects substantial national progress.
Highlighting specific achievements, Daniel noted that under President Tinubu, local governments — which had previously struggled due to lack of funding — are now receiving financial support, enabling them to function more effectively at the grassroots level. He also referenced the successful establishment of the Southwest Development Commission, a move he described as a step toward regional development, similar to the governance model championed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“Today, aside from the federal, state, and local governments, we now have a quasi-regional government,” Daniel said. “This marks a strategic shift in governance that promises enhanced development across regions.”
Daniel pointed out that the removal of fuel subsidies has led to a significant increase in monthly allocations to states. He projected that with the implementation of the newly signed tax reform bill in 2026, states could receive up to four or five times their current revenue allocations.
He praised Tinubu’s "quiet revolutions" in governance and urged Nigerians to support ongoing efforts to build a stable and prosperous nation.
On the subject of state creation, Daniel revealed that the people of Remo have agreed to shelve their pursuit of a separate Remo State and instead align with their Ijebu counterparts in the joint demand for a new Ijebu-Remo State, provided their cultural identity is preserved.
He explained, “The Remo people are not against the Ijebu. What we are saying is that our identity must be respected, just like Akwa Ibom retained its identity when created.”
The Akarigbo and paramount ruler of Remo land, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the call for state creation is not a conflict with the Ijebu people, but a plea for cultural inclusion.
The event also featured the grand finale of the Christian choir competition, an initiative Daniel launched nearly 20 years ago to foster worship through music. He applauded all 10 participating choirs for their talent and devotion.
The choir competition’s top prize of ₦5 million was awarded to Singinspiration Chorale from Onitsha, Anambra State. Messiah Chorale from Ile Ife, Osun State, took second place with ₦3.5 million, while De Emerald Chorale from Akure, Ondo State, came third, receiving ₦2.5 million.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olaide Adelani, also commended Daniel for his continuous efforts to bring people closer to God through worship and music.
ADEOLA KUNLE
