Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s president-elect, took the oath of office on Monday, defying legal challenges seeking to invalidate the outcome of the 2023 presidential election. At 71 years old, Tinubu has become the 16th President of Nigeria, the most populous nation in Africa. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, administered the oath at Eagles Square in the capital city, Abuja.
During his inauguration speech, Tinubu pledged to fulfill his duties in accordance with the constitution and emphasized the importance of unity among Nigerians. He acknowledged that although the nation exists on paper due to its constitution, efforts must be made to bring it to life by strengthening social cohesion, cultural understanding, and economic progress.
Tinubu highlighted that addressing the country’s security challenges would be his administration’s top priority. He expressed a commitment to defending Nigeria against terrorism and all forms of criminality that threaten peace and stability. He further stated that his government would invest in security personnel and provide them with better equipment.
According to a report by the World Bank in April, Nigeria’s economic growth is insufficient to alleviate the high levels of extreme poverty. The National Bureau of Statistics estimated that approximately 88.4 million people in Nigeria are affected by extreme poverty. The World Bank predicted a decline in Nigeria’s economic growth to 2.8% in 2023, compared to 3.3% in 2022. The report also identified policy challenges such as reduced crude oil output and high inflation that the incoming government will have to address.
President Tinubu has pledged to improve job security and eradicate extreme poverty. He expressed the intention to reshape the economy to achieve a higher GDP growth rate than the current one.
Tinubu’s victory in the February 25 election succeeded Muhammadu Buhari, who served two terms as president under the All Progressives Congress ticket. However, his victory is being contested by two main opponents who have alleged fraud. The Presidential Election Petition Court is scheduled to commence hearings on Tuesday, and a final ruling is expected in September.
In response to the election, President Tinubu acknowledged the competitiveness of the contest but asserted that it was fairly won. He expressed the desire to foster a sense of unity among Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity, and pledged to serve with compassion for all.
Let us hope that President Tinubu’s tenure brings positive changes to Nigeria and addresses the challenges facing the nation, promoting unity, economic growth, and the well-being of its citizens.
