Politics
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians to bury political differences and join him in a new journey of healing, nation-building and economic prosperity.
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Office of the President, in a statement on Monday in Abuja, said Tinubu made the appeal in his inaugural address after taking the oaths of office and allegiance.
The oath of office was administered by the Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Kayode Ariwoola, at the Eagles Square, Abuja.
Tinubu pledged to be a president for all, irrespective of the circumstances of history and political differences.
The president, who was symbolically dressed in the national colours of green and white, charged Nigerians to not allow the opportunity for a greater development of the country to slip away.
“Our constitution and laws give us a nation on paper; we must work harder at bringing these noble documents to life by strengthening the bonds of economic collaboration, social cohesion, and cultural understanding. Let us develop a shared sense of fairness and equity.
“The south must not only seek good for itself but must understand that its interests are served when good comes to the North; the North must see the south likewise.
“Whether from the winding creeks of the Niger Delta, the vastness of the northern savannah, the boardrooms of Lagos, the bustling capital of Abuja, or the busy markets of Onitsha, you are all my people.
“ As your president, I shall serve with prejudice toward none but compassion and amity towards all.”
The president said that in its over 60-year history, Nigeria had endured hardships that would have made other societies crumble, but for the resilience and strength of its diversity the country had remained intact.
He said that the handover symbolised Nigeria’s trust in God and its enduring faith in representative governance.
The president explained that though he fought hard to win the Feb. 25 election, the win did not make him any more Nigerian than his opponents, who he pledged to relate to as compatriots.
“The outcome reflected the will of the people; however, my victory does not render me any more Nigerian than my opponents; nor does it render them any less patriotic.
“They shall forever be my fellow compatriots. And I will treat them as such. They represent important constituencies and concerns that wisdom dare not ignore.’’
He described the election that brought him to power as tough but fairly won, and dedicated his victory to the country with a promise to do his all to advance its progress.
“This is the proudest day of my life. But this day does not belong to me. It belongs to you, the people of Nigeria.”
On the economy, Tinubu said his administration would target a higher GDP growth and significantly reduce unemployment.
He promised to offer budgetary reform that would stimulate the economy without engendering inflation.
“Second, industrial policy will utilize the full range of fiscal measures to promote domestic manufacturing and lessen import dependency.
“Third, electricity will become more accessible and affordable to businesses and homes alike.
“Power generation should nearly double and transmission and distribution networks improved. We will encourage states to develop local sources as well.”
He said his administration would review all complaints by investors about multiple taxation and various anti-investment inhibitions.
“We shall ensure that investors and foreign businesses repatriate their hard earned dividends and profits home.”
Tinubu said that security should be the top priority of his administration because neither prosperity nor justice could prevail amidst insecurity and violence.
To tackle unemployment, Tinubu reiterated the importance of creating meaningful opportunities for the youths and pledged to honour his campaign commitment of one million new jobs in the digital economy.
“Our government also shall work with the National Assembly to fashion an omnibus Jobs and Prosperity bill.
“This bill will give our administration the policy space to embark on labour-intensive infrastructural improvements, encourage light industry and provide improved social services for the poor, elderly and vulnerable.”
The president commended the action of the Muhammadu Buhari administration to phase out fuel subsidy which he said would save the country at a time of drying resources.
“We shall instead re-channel the funds into better investment in public infrastructure, education, health care and jobs that will materially improve the lives of millions.”
Tinubu said Nigeria’s monetary policy needs thorough housecleaning as he charged the Central Bank of Nigeria to work towards a unified exchange rate.
“This will direct funds away from arbitrage into meaningful investment in the plant, equipment and jobs that power the real economy.”
Tinubu said his administration would treat both new and old naira notes as legal tender, saying despite its intended merits, the controversial currency swap policy of the CBN was too harshly applied” given the number of unbanked Nigerians.’’
According to him, the primary objective of his foreign policy objective must be the peace and stability of the West African subregion and the African continent.
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by many presidents, prime ministers and other world leaders and diplomats.
Also in attendance were former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President, Ahmad Lawan and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Serving and former governors, traditional and religious leaders, captains of industry and members of the diplomatic corps among others also attended the event.(NAN)
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Tags: Abdulaziz Abdulaziz Justice Kayode Ariwoola President Bola Tinubu
