President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigerians made a wise decision by electing Bola Tinubu to succeed him.
According to a statement issued by Femi Adesina, presidential spokesperson, Buhari spoke on Thursday after he bestowed Tinubu with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) honour.
The GCFR honour is the highest in the country and are bestowed on presidents.
The President said he “run a good race” and finished his course, noting that it was time for the baton to be taken from him.
Buhari who was elected in 2015, got re-elected in 2019 and will complete his second term in office on May 29 when Tibubu is sworn in.
Buhari said Tinubu’s victory at the February 25 presidential election was “well-deserved”.
“The Nigerian people have recognised your leadership qualities, political acumen, and passion to serve our great nation, and have entrusted you with the burden of governing our beloved country,” Buhari said.
“I do not doubt that Nigeria will continue to thrive and achieve new heights under your leadership. You were the best candidate at the elections and Nigerians have chosen wisely.”
The President expressed optimism that Tinubu would serve Nigeria with “utmost dedication and integrity”.
He told Tinubu that leadership responsibilities come with challenges but that he needs to tackle them with courage, wisdom, and compassion.
“We must remain committed to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, as these are the foundations upon which our nation’s progress and development rely,’’ Buhari said.
Buhari said Tinubu has a long and “illustrious track record of public service, marked by your exceptional achievements in various capacities”.
“Your transformative leadership in Lagos state, where you left an indelible mark in the areas of infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development, speaks volumes about your dedication to the welfare of the Nigerian people,” he said.
‘WE’VE TOUCHED ALL SECTORS POSITIVELY’
Reflecting on the performance of his administration, Buhari said his government has worked hard to tackle “hydra-headed” issues.
He said his administration has touched all aspects of the nation’s economy positively, including reducing kidnapping and terrorism to the “nearest minimum”.
“Despite the aforementioned challenges, our administration has made economic gains over the years. Our administration’s commitment and determination in the infrastructural upliftment of Nigeria have remained unshaken.
“Despite the shortfall in the federal government’s revenue, due to the weakness in the global economy that led to a drop in oil revenue, we have touched on all sectors of the Nigerian economy positively.
“As we celebrate the monumental infrastructural strides achieved by this administration, it is pertinent to acknowledge that these transformative endeavours have not only reshaped our physical landscape but have also paved the way for remarkable economic outcomes that reverberate across our nation.”
