The Yoruba Council Worldwide (YCW) has formally endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office, expressing confidence in his leadership and the long-term impact of his Renewed Hope Agenda.
The endorsement was announced during a press conference held on Wednesday at the historic Ooni’s Palace, where the President of the Council, Aare Hassan Olodotun, addressed journalists and key stakeholders.
According to Hassan, the decision followed extensive consultations among members of the global Yoruba community, who assessed the administration’s performance across critical sectors.
He stated that President Tinubu has demonstrated “visionary leadership and democratic commitment” in navigating Nigeria through a challenging socio-economic landscape.
The Council highlighted ongoing reforms in national security, economic restructuring, education, healthcare delivery, and social integration as key indicators of progress.
While acknowledging the scale of Nigeria’s challenges, Hassan emphasized that the administration has shown both the capacity and political will to address them.
“We have found in President Tinubu a leader with courage, experience, and a clear roadmap for national development. His Renewed Hope Agenda reflects a comprehensive approach to rebuilding the economy, strengthening institutions, and fostering unity across diverse groups,” he said.
He further noted that recent fiscal and policy reforms, though demanding short-term sacrifices from citizens, are necessary steps toward stabilizing the economy and attracting long-term investment.
The endorsement event also formed part of activities marking the anniversary of the Yoruba Council Worldwide, alongside celebrations of the Omoluabi Festival in Ile-Ife—an occasion expected to bring together prominent sons and daughters of the Yoruba nation while reinforcing cultural values and communal identity.
Expanding on the broader message of unity, Hassan urged Nigerians to look beyond ethnic divisions, political tensions, and what he described as “unnecessary blackmail,” calling for a more reflective approach to the 2027 general elections.
“To have a country we can truly call our own, Nigerians must rise above division. The 2027 election should not be an election of war, but a rallying point to assess where we are as a nation and the kind of future we want to build together,” he stated.
He stressed that peace and coexistence remain central to the Yoruba identity, noting that the Omoluabi ethos—anchored on integrity, resilience, and mutual respect—should guide political engagement across the country.
Hassan also linked the message of unity to the forthcoming Omoluabi annual anniversary and his installation as Sooko Agoriesin of Ile-Ife by the Ooni, describing the festival as a symbol of peace and inclusivity.
“The Omoluabi culture represents the epitome of peace. It is not about war, destruction, or violence, but about integrity, hard work, and respect for one another, regardless of religion or background. Whether Christian or Muslim, this festival belongs to all of us,” he added.
He commended the Ooni for hosting the 27th edition of the celebration scheduled for May 1, noting that the event will also commemorate his installation while showcasing the enduring values and identity of the Yoruba people.
Beyond regional interests, the Council reiterated its call for national cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections, urging Nigerians to embrace dialogue, tolerance, and unity as the country charts its future.
“We must not allow the 2027 elections to become a battleground. Rather, it should be a rallying point for Nigerians to collectively decide the path forward for our nation,” Hassan said.
