Nigerians react as Tinubu takes oath as 16th President

As the 16th President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, readies himself for the oath of office today, Nigerians eagerly anticipate and expect speedy resolutions in crucial sectors like the economy, security, and fuel subsidy.

This call for swift actions resonates strongly amongst the nation’s youthful populace, who are bracing themselves for dynamic and effective leadership.

Tinubu, whose victory in the February 25 presidential election is currently being disputed by Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, representing the Peoples Democratic Party and Labour Party respectively, will nevertheless receive the baton of leadership from the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari. Over 300 distinguished guests are expected at the splendid inauguration ceremony held at Eagle Square, Abuja. Millions of Nigerians, both home and abroad, will also witness this historic moment through live broadcasts.

Security has been fortified in the Federal Capital Territory with the deployment of soldiers, police, undercover operatives, and counter-terrorism units. Aerial surveillance also forms part of the strategy to ensure a peaceful transition of power.

As part of the succession, high-ranking representatives of foreign governments, diplomats, and heads of international organisations began touching down in Abuja as of Sunday.

Given the hurdles confronting the nation, key players in the economic sector, including the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, are urging the incoming president to decisively tackle inflation, steady the exchange rate, and phase out fuel subsidy within his first 100 days in office.

Speaking in Lagos, the Director General of NECA, Mr Wale Oyerinde, emphasized the urgency of establishing an economic team and creating a viable blueprint for reviving the refineries and eliminating fuel subsidies within the first 100 days. “Defining their economic philosophy is paramount,” he noted.

Oyerinde further suggested that the new administration must rally Nigerians around its economic philosophy. Underlining the significance of the private sector’s role in national development, he called on the next administration to spell out this sector’s part in its economic agenda.

Dr Ikenna Nwaosu, a facilitator with the NESG, emphasised that unity is pivotal as the president-elect strives to tackle inflation and exchange rate issues. “Uniting the country is crucial. As he navigates the partisan landscape of politics, there is a need to keep a check on the rising inflation and exchange rates,” he pointed out.

MAN highlighted the fragile state of the economy, calling for immediate re-strategising. They urged the incoming government to set tangible targets to achieve within its first 100 days, including prioritizing foreign exchange for the manufacturing sector and improving access to electricity. The association also called for efficient operation of the electronic call-up system at the ports to ease congestion.

With Tinubu stepping into the role of President, Nigeria’s vibrant youth look forward to transformative leadership, one that would ignite a brighter future for all.