National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that a new government that is committed to build a new Nigeria has been established and Nigerians should celebrate themselves as the true heroes of this democratic achievement.
Tinubu who spoke during the Presidential Inauguration Gala Night at the Presidential Villa, Abuja said the electorate shunned all monetary inducement to buy their votes, they voted with their conscience.
Tinubu said “Despite heavy inducement to move otherwise, the people were not induced or intimidated. The people voted for their better destiny at last election. The average Nigerian, decent, hardworking, unseen and anonymous, they voted.
“They are the heroes of this glorious moment. Without their faith in democracy and belief in a better future, this election would not have been had and we will not be celebrating the inauguration of a new president tonight.
“Congratulations to millions of Nigerians at home and abroad. Congratulations to Africa, Nigeria is ready to lead. Today we celebrate; tomorrow we will turn our energy … and our polity to the task at hand, giving better life for the people and our beloved country.
“A new era is upon us; all here are blessed by the hand of great providence to witness the awakening of our nation. This noble moment will endure for long after we have expired. A new president has been inaugurated, a new government established and a commitment to build a new Nigeria has been consecrated and … of our people.
“We celebrate the coming of President Muhammadu Buhari. In him, we have a leader who is principled, bold, determined, passionate and determined to lead. He is like those leaders who have led their nations to greatness in time past. We celebrate because his election was a testament to the path of human decency and sovereignty of the people … of power.”
“We celebrate Nigeria’s friends from Africa and around the world joining us today. Your presence is an expression of goodwill that shall never be forgotten.
“Your presence underscores for us the importance that Nigeria holds in the community of nations. That we have accomplished a peaceful transition of administration from one different political party, that is an historical landmark.”
Tinubu also urged Nigerians to pray for the success of President Mohammadu Buhari and his team, he said “They come into power at a difficult moment and we grapple with multiple of challenges. we will be there for you and with you, Mr. President. May his administration take the first mighty step in reconstructing a new and better Nigeria for all our people. May he begin to lay the foundation for a better house for all of us.
“Faith now ushers in a period of light and revival that will guide us to the upper road and a higher purpose. We thank God for this chance, for it was not guaranteed by our labour or by our effort. But it comes from the power of God Almighty.
“General Muhammadu Buhari and other African head of state here. From one programme to the other, the African renaissance must start with him. The challenge is yours. We that are looking up to you will continue to do so with great commitment and perseverance and all sense of value that Africans must build Africa to show that Africans can compete, Nigeria must lead. We dare not squander this good thing given to us.”