Nigeria’s President -elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, takes office today as the 16th President, and Nigerians are urging him to prioritize prompt action in crucial areas such as the economy, security, and fuel subsidy. The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, will administer the oath of office at a grand ceremony at Eagle Square, Abuja.
Despite ongoing challenges to Tinubu’s victory by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi of the opposition parties, the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party respectively, the inauguration will proceed with over 300 guests in attendance. The event will also be broadcast live to millions of Nigerians both at home and abroad.
Security measures have been heightened in the Federal Capital Territory, with the deployment of soldiers, policemen, undercover operatives, and counter-terrorism units at key locations and public facilities, including hotels hosting invited guests. Aerial surveillance is being conducted by the military and police through helicopter patrols.
Foreign representatives, diplomats, and heads of international organizations have begun arriving in Abuja in preparation for the power transition.
Economic stakeholders, including the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), have called on Tinubu to address pressing issues such as inflation, exchange rate stabilization, and the removal of fuel subsidies within his first 100 days in office.
NECA’s Director-General, Mr. Wale Oyerinde, emphasized the need for Tinubu to assemble his economic team promptly and develop a blueprint for reviving the country’s refineries and tackling revenue leakages, including oil theft. He stressed the importance of building consensus and defining the private sector’s role in the new administration’s economic plan.
Similarly, MAN highlighted the parlous state of the economy and urged Tinubu to set specific targets for achievement within his first 100 days. They called for prioritization of foreign exchange allocation to the productive sector, admission of qualified applicant companies into the Eligible Customer Scheme for power access, and the smooth functioning of the electronic call-up system at ports to address congestion.
The Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) echoed the need for reviewing fiscal policies, addressing market shocks, infrastructural deficits, and the removal of fuel subsidies. The LCCI also emphasized sustaining interventions in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and export to boost foreign exchange earnings.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) presented its charter of demands to Tinubu, focusing on workers’ welfare and maintaining their stance on fuel subsidy removal.
Outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari defended his administration’s policies, acknowledging temporary hardships but claiming they yielded positive results for the country. He congratulated Tinubu, praising his commitment to positioning Nigeria as a leading nation globally.
Tinubu, in his inaugural dinner speech, expressed his determination to address the country’s challenges and fulfill the expectations of Nigerians.
Overall, as Tinubu assumes office, the Nigerian populace eagerly awaits his swift action on critical issues for the betterment of the nation.