In an official statement released by the British High Commission in Nigeria, the UK Government extends its congratulations to President Tinubu and Kashim Shettima on their inauguration as President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, respectively.
His Majesty King Charles III, in a message addressed to President Tinubu, reaffirms the commitment to fostering a stronger partnership between the UK and Nigeria. The King expresses his warmest congratulations and extends well wishes as President Tinubu undertakes the significant responsibilities of his office. As Commonwealth partners with deep bonds, King Charles III looks forward to nurturing an even stronger friendship between the two countries during President Tinubu’s tenure.
Helen Grant OBE, the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on Trade to Nigeria and Girls’ Education emphasizes the priority of strengthening the bilateral trade and investment partnership for the mutual benefit of both nations. Grant eagerly anticipates collaborating with the new administration to further this goal. As someone with a strong affinity for Nigeria, being the land of her father, she holds great affection for its people. Grant also highlights her continued dedication to ensuring that every girl in Nigeria receives 12 years of quality education, which remains a top priority on her Nigerian agenda.
Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, expresses the UK’s desire to collaborate with the new administration of President Tinubu, supporting a more prosperous and resilient Nigeria. The UK aims to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria in the areas of trade, development, and security.
The UK delegation present at the inauguration in Abuja was led by Helen Grant OBE MP, the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria and Special Envoy on Girls’ Education, along with Dr. Richard Montgomery CMG, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria.
Inaugural Address By President Tinubu: Pledging Unity, Progress, and Effective Governance
During his inaugural address, President Tinubu expressed profound gratitude for the mandate bestowed upon him by the Nigerian citizens. He conveyed unwavering love for the nation and faith in its people, relying on the strength provided by God Almighty.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s journey, President Tinubu recognized the collective sacrifices and prayers that have shaped the nation. Despite enduring hardships, Nigeria has displayed resilience and firmly established itself as a democracy in both words and actions. The peaceful transfer of power signifies trust in God and the belief in representative governance.
In addressing his predecessor, President Tinubu acknowledged President Muhammadu Buhari’s honest and patriotic leadership, expressing gratitude and hoping for a favorable place in history for him. He also acknowledged the critics who predicted Nigeria’s downfall, emphasizing the nation’s strength, diversity, and its role as a champion for the Black Race.
Affirming Nigeria’s unity and existence, the President emphasized the responsibility to uphold the torch of human progress. He pledged to govern on behalf of the people, promoting consultation, dialogue, and unity while working towards healing and unifying the nation. President Tinubu acknowledged the recent election as hard-fought and fairly won, respecting the rights of his opponents to seek legal recourse.
President Tinubu called for a renewed commitment to Nigeria as an indispensable home for all, transcending divisions of creed, ethnicity, or birthplace. He outlined the guiding principles that would shape his administration, including impartial governance, combating terrorism and criminality, fostering economic growth, empowering women and youth, and implementing proactive anti-corruption measures.
Concluding his address, the President promised a detailed program in the upcoming days and weeks, focused on progressive and effective governance. His vision encompassed an impartially governed Nigeria that upholds the rule of law, safeguards the nation from threats, promotes economic development, encourages inclusivity, and spearheads the fight against corruption.