May 29: Tinubu renews commitment towards national service
The president-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Saturday said he will dedicate his life in ensuring that the country is placed on a path in achieving its potentials saying that this can only be achieved through the practice of true democracy.
He said this at the inauguration lecture as part of activities ahead of May 29 inauguration at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
READ ALSO: May 29: Tinubu, pledges to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, promote good relations
The president-elect who was represented by his Vice-President-elect, Kashim Shettima restated his commitment to the ideals of democracy as the best form of government.
“Distinguished guests, democracy is more than a system of governance; it is the very lifeblood that empowers a nation to flourish and thrive,” the President-elect said.
“We stand at the precipice of a new era, where the ideals of democracy will guide our path towards sustainable development.”
He added that that democracy, as an ever-evolving concept, empowers the majority to express their will while safeguarding the fundamental interests of the minority.
“Our democracy is not an abstract ideal; it is a practical vessel that will propel our nation to new heights in every facet of our collective existence,” Tinubu added.
Drawing insights from Nigeria’s national experience, he acknowledged the merits of democracy even in its imperfect manifestations, stressing that it surpasses the most perfect dictatorship in terms of justice, humanity, and productivity.
He also mentioned the importance of fostering open forums for discussion and debate, where the best ideas and policies can enter the national discourse and capture the imagination of the people. He pledged to utilize 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.
“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 proclaimed resolutely.
While making his remarks at the lecture, outgoing president, Muhammadu Buhari noted that the inauguration lecture took participants on a journey of introspection on the imperatives of democratic governance and nation-building and that the various challenges that confront the socio-political fabrics of Nigeria were highlighted.
“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 nations progress rest 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,” President Buhari said.
The former president of Kenya, Uhuru Kenyata who gave the keynote appealed to the incoming President of Nigeria 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.”
The well-attended lecture had in attendance National Chairman of ruling All Progressives Congress, Senator Abdullahi Adamu, Deputy Speaker House of Representatives Idris Wase, Secretary to the Government of Federation, Boss Mustapha, Sultan Mohammed Abubakar Sa’ad of Sokoto, Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Bishop Mathew Kukah, President of Africa Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina and Deputy Secretary-General of United Nations, Amina Muhammed.
Others at the event included Ministers, National Assembly members and other top government officials.
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