The President-elect, Bola Tinubu, has pledged to use his entire being for the development of Nigeria as the number citizen of the country.

Tinubu also vowed to utilise democratic institutions not only to safeguard political and civil rights but also to drive comprehensive economic reforms that engender broad-based prosperity, create employment opportunities, and unlock the nation’s untapped potential.

He made the vow at the presidential inauguration lecture at the International Conference Centre in Abuja on Saturday, May 27.

“Today, I stand before you, ready to dedicate my entire being to the service of our great nation and the African continent,” the President-elect said.

Tinubu, whose address was delivered by the Vice President-elect, Kashim Shettima, called on Nigerians to stand together with the incoming administration to birth a better country.

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He further restated his commitment to the ideals of democracy as the best form of government, saying: “Distinguished guests, democracy is more than a system of governance; it is the very lifeblood that empowers a nation to flourish and thrive.

“We stand at the precipice of a new era, where the ideals of democracy will guide our path towards sustainable development.”

The former governor of Lagos State hailed the collective efforts of Nigerians and Africans in shaping their democratic political cultures and institutions, tailored to the unique conditions and challenges faced by their societies.

Tinubu articulated the essence of democracy, stressing that it transcends being a mere form of government.

Also speaking at the event, President Muhammadu Buhari noted that the inauguration lecture took participants on a journey of introspection on the imperatives of democratic governance and nation-building, adding that the various challenges that confront the socio-political fabrics of Nigeria were highlighted.

Buhari said: “We have learnt that democracy is not just a system of governance. It is a way of life. True democracy is when voice of people are heard.

“Our nation’s progress rests on inclusivity, unity and not leaving any citizen behind and by ensuring every citizen enjoy dividends of good governance. We must heed the lessons of this lecture and translate them into action. We must fight against corruption in all its form. We must remain united. Our diversity is our strength.

“We can overcome our differences and forge a common cause towards progress.”

On his part, former Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta, urged Tinubu to unite the country irrespective of ethnic, political, and religious cleavages that may exist.

“The contest is now over and the hard work of building a prosperous and unified Nigeria now begins.

“Upon assuming the office of President, you would be wise to transcend from tactical politics of an election and assume your role as Nigeria’s vision bearer,” Kenyatta stated.

Others at the event were the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Adamu; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Idris Wase; the Secretary to the Government of Federation, Boss Mustapha; Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammed Abubakar Sa’ad; and Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi; among others.

The Star