President Buhari in Office
EKO HOT BLOG reports that President Muhammadu Buhari bid farewell to the Nigerian people in his final speech before handing over the reins of power to President-elect Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In his address, he expressed gratitude to the nation, acknowledged Nigeria’s democratic progress, and highlighted the achievements of his administration.
President Buhari began his speech by expressing deep gratitude to God, appreciating the Nigerian people, and reflecting on his sense of fulfillment.
He emphasized the significance of the peaceful transition of power from one democratically elected government to another, which he considered a testament to the growth and consolidation of Nigeria’s democracy.
He lauded the keenly contested presidential elections held earlier in the year, noting that each election contributes to the strengthening of democracy in the nation.
President Buhari’s farewell address also stressed the need to continue improving the electoral process incrementally, allowing Nigeria to assume its rightful place among the community of nations.
Recognizing the right to seek redress for perceived injustices, the President urged all parties involved to accept the decisions of the courts and collaborate to build a better Nigeria. He commended the opposition presidential candidates for their resilience and commitment in taking their grievances to court, acknowledging their faith in the judiciary.
President Buhari called on all Nigerians to harness the strength of individualism, the power of unity, and the conviction of their beliefs to work together for a better Nigeria. He directed his congratulations to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his long-time political associate, and expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership abilities to take Nigeria to greater heights.
Reflecting on his administration’s accomplishments over the past eight years, President Buhari highlighted the remarkable strides made in improving public goods and services. He acknowledged the high expectations placed upon him and his party, emphasizing their commitment to correct the course Nigeria was on.
The President noted the electoral reforms that were implemented to ensure credible elections, reduce the influence of money in politics, and provide an equal playing field for all candidates. He cited examples of individuals without political godfathers or substantial resources emerging victorious, underscoring the positive outcomes of these reforms.
President Buhari also praised the resilience of the Nigerian economy, which weathered the global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted efforts to empower the poor, support rural communities, create opportunities for youth, and provide an enabling environment for the private sector to thrive.
Buhari presiding over FEC meeting
The President acknowledged the progress made in combating insecurity, including reducing the incidences of banditry, terrorism, and armed robbery. He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and adhere to the values of being their brothers’ keepers to support the security agencies in maintaining a safe and secure environment.
Addressing the issue of corruption, President Buhari’s farewell address emphasized his unwavering commitment to rid the country of corrupt practices. He expressed satisfaction with the progress made in repatriating stolen funds and recovering illegally acquired properties. The President also noted the ongoing reforms to build an efficient, productive, incorruptible, and citizen-oriented federal civil service.
Internationally, he highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence, with notable Nigerians occupying leadership positions in renowned global bodies.
President Buhari commended the National Assembly for their patriotic role as a check to the executive arm and expressed appreciation to those who supported his administration’s efforts.
In concluding his address, President Buhari expressed gratitude to the millions who prayed for him during his illness in his first term and assured them of his constant prayers for Nigeria’s prosperity and peace.
He retires to his hometown, Daura, in Katsina State, confident that Nigeria’s journey toward rebirth had begun and expressed his belief that the incoming administration would accelerate the country’s progress.
President Buhari concluded by expressing his conviction that Nigeria was better in 2023 than in 2015, thanking the Nigerian people, and invoking God’s blessings upon the Federal Republic.
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