President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigeria will continue to thrive and achieve new heights during the administration of the President-elect, Bola Tinubu.

Buhari, who described Tinubu as the best candidate in the February 25, 2023, presidential election, said Nigerians chose wisely by electing the former governor of Lagos State.

The President made the declaration at the investiture of the President-elect and Vice President-elect, Kashim Shettima, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday, May 25.

Tinubu was awarded the National Honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR) while Shettima was conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).

Buhari said: “I extend my warmest congratulations to the President-elect, on his well-deserved victory at the February 25th, 2023 Presidential elections. The Nigerian people have recognised your leadership qualities, political acumen, and passion to serve our great nation, and have entrusted you with the burden of governing our beloved country.

“I have no doubt that Nigeria will continue to thrive and achieve new heights under your leadership. You were the best candidate at the elections and Nigerians have chosen wisely.

“I equally extend my congratulations to the Vice President-elect. Your wealth of experience in governance, your unwavering commitment to the well-being of the Nigerian people, and your exemplary leadership during challenging times as Governor of Borno State, have made you a deserving candidate for this position. I have full confidence that you will serve our nation with utmost dedication and integrity.

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“As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, let us not forget the immense responsibilities that come with leadership. The challenges facing our nation are significant, and it is the duty of the President and Vice President to address them with courage, wisdom, and compassion.

“We must remain committed to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, as these are the foundations upon which our nation’s progress and development rely.”

President Buhari noted that Tinubu has the experience and capacity to lead the country, carrying on the legacy of his administration.

He added: “President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you have a long and illustrious track record of public service, marked by your exceptional achievements in various capacities.

“Your transformative leadership in Lagos State, where you left an indelible mark in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development, speaks volumes about your dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people.”

The President, however, expressed his gratitude to Nigerians for their unwavering support and trust throughout his eight-year tenure, adding: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve this great nation, and I am confident that Nigeria is in capable hands as we embark on this new chapter.”

While examining some of the challenges before the incoming administration, Buhari enjoined Tinubu to lead the country with wisdom, courage, and compassion.

On his part, the President-elect thanked President Buhari for the transition committee that was ensuring a smooth handing-over process with documents that cover and capture the performance of the outgoing administration.

“I also feel a sense of pride that this moment is our moment,” he said.

The Star