'Food becoming cheaper under Tinubu' - Ooni of Ife

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, assured President Bola Tinubu of the unwavering support of traditional rulers in the country.

The Ooni said this during Ramadan Iftar with traditional rulers and religious leaders at the State House on Thursday in Abuja.

Ogunwusi commended the government's efforts to address the hike in food prices and the security challenges.

''You are not alone, Mr. President. The prices of food items and goods are gradually coming down," he said.

"You are doing your best on security, and we cannot allow you to do it alone. We will join hands to support your vision to the betterment of our nation,'' the Ooni said.

Also speaking, Vice-President Kashim Shettima emphasised the roles of religious and traditional rulers in promoting peace and unity, urging them to continue to build bridges that transcend ethnic and religious divides.

Shettima expressed delight that the nation's economy is on a rebound, noting the strengthening of the naira against the dollar.

''The President means well for the nation, and he has continued to redefine the meaning and concept of modern leadership," he said.

"For many years, fuel subsidy was an albatross. The president took a bold decision from day one, and he hit the ground running. Now the economy is turning the corner," the vice president said.

Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, the Emir of Zazzau, speaking on behalf of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), highlighted the significance of Ramadan as a period of reflection, empathy, and unity.

On the security situation in the country, Bamalli, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto and President General, NSCIA, expressed optimism that the country would return to peace and stability.

''I am happy to see representatives of Muslim and Christian communities in this room. I pray God Almighty blesses the President for him to do more to take the country to the Promised Land,'' the Emir said.

Apostle Samson Fatokun, General Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), noted that the Ramadan dinner with religious and traditional leaders coincided with Maundy Thursday.

Fatokun, who delivered the address of CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, commended Tinubu for fostering a harmonious relationship between the state and the church.

''We are encouraged that your administration has shown great determination in tackling the challenges of kidnapping and banditry and bringing to justice the perpetrators of this dastardly act.

''We shall continue to show our support to your administration so that you can execute your noble intention for the nation,'' he said.