Daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former senator representing Ogun Central, Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo, has described recent economic and infrastructural developments in Nigeria as signs of a positive shift capable of overhauling the country’s economic landscape.

She spoke against the backdrop of the Ogun 2027 political climate and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic recovery plan.

According to Obasanjo, the relative stability of the national currency has restored confidence among businesses, particularly importers and exporters, by enabling better financial planning and predictability.

She noted that frequent fluctuations in the exchange rate in the past made it difficult for businesses to survive, as costs and selling prices changed unpredictably, stressing that the current trend offers relief to the private sector.

Obasanjo said major infrastructure projects, including the much-debated Lagos–Calabar road project, would ultimately deliver long-term economic benefits despite initial criticisms.

She explained that the project would enhance port connectivity, facilitate smoother transportation to the eastern corridor and reduce pressure on roads in Ogun State, which serves as a major transit route between the South-West, North and East.

“Right now, if you are travelling to the North or East, you almost always pass through Ogun State. While that is good for connectivity, it also puts enormous pressure on our roads. This project will help decongest those routes and support development,” she said.

She also cited improvements in rail transportation as part of broader efforts to strengthen logistics and ease the movement of goods and people across the country.

On security, Obasanjo said increased collaboration among security agencies and international partners had contributed to gradual improvements, adding that economic diplomacy remains a critical driver of development.

She commended the trade and investment initiatives of President Tinubu, noting that his international engagements were opening new opportunities for economic growth.

“The stabilisation of the naira cannot be underestimated. When people can predict income and expenditure, investments increase and the economy improves,” she said.

Obasanjo further defended the Lagos–Calabar road project, arguing that beyond early criticisms, the infrastructure would unlock economic opportunities by improving port access and easing transportation bottlenecks across regions.

She also lauded President Tinubu’s economic recovery efforts, saying his foreign engagements had begun to yield positive outcomes in trade and investment.

“The President’s visits to different countries for trade and economic cooperation are important. International collaboration is rising, and that is key to sustainable development,” she added.

Reflecting on her political journey and connection to the grassroots, Obasanjo said she built a career before entering politics, which allowed her to view public service as an avenue for development rather than a lifelong occupation.

She noted that living abroad gave her insights into governance systems in other societies, particularly local government administration and taxation.

“My international exposure helps because I had a career I am comfortable returning to. When I am in government, I see everything as a development issue, not something to hold on to forever,” she said.

She argued that politics should not be treated as a lifelong profession, noting that democratic governance was designed to allow citizens to serve and later return to private life.

Obasanjo cited President Tinubu’s trajectory — serving as governor of Lagos State for eight years before spending nearly two decades outside public office — as an example that encourages the emergence of “citizen politicians” who bring fresh ideas into governance.