The President-elect, Bola Tinubu, has promised to hit the ground running and unify the country upon his assumption of office on May 29, 2023.

Tinubu, who made the vow during a telephone conversation with the United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, on Tuesday, May 16, also pledged to work to ensure continued positive relations with the U.S.

According to a statement issued on Wednesday by his media aide, Tunde Rahman, the President-elect said his immediate priorities would be to deliver institutional reforms and development programmes to deepen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and bring help to poor and vulnerable Nigerians.

He also expressed his determination to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and faithfully serve the citizens as president.

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Tinubu, who recalled being granted asylum by the U.S. when he was forced into exile during his struggle for the restoration of democracy in Nigeria, said the result of the 2023 elections reflected the will of Nigerians.

The former governor of Lagos State further urged the U.S. to factor in Nigeria’s important place in Africa and provide needed assistance in the areas of security and economic investment in order for the country to lead the way and be a shining example to the rest of the continent.

On his part, Blinken said Nigeria should expect a good and mutually-beneficial relationship with the United States, promising to play his part in ensuring and sustaining a cordial relationship between the two nations.

He noted that a democratic and peaceful Nigeria is important to the United States as it is to Africa.

The Star