Tinubu promises good governance pledging to ensure Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy

NIGERIA'S new president-elect the former Lagos State governor Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has assured the country's citizens of good governance pointing out that during his tenure they will benefit from the dividends of democracy.

Early this morning, Asiwaju Tinubu, the flagbearer of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was declared the winner of Saturday's elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (Inec). Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Inec chairman, who served as returning officer for the elections declared Asiwaju Tinubu duly elected, sparking off celebrations among his supporters.

In what was a three-horse race involving former vice president Alhaji Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party and ex-Anambra State governor Peter Obi of the Labour Party, the turnout was high, with heavy youth participation. In his acceptance speech, Asiwaju Tinubu said he was aware that for many youths, Nigeria has become a place of abiding challenges, limiting their ability to see a bright future.

Asiwaju Tinubu said: "I am profoundly humbled that you have elected me to serve as the 16th president of our beloved republic. This is a shining moment in the life of any man and affirmation of our democratic existence and from my heart, I say thank you.

"You decided to place your trust in the democratic vision of a Nigeria founded on shared prosperity and one nurtured by the ideals of unity, justice, peace and tolerance. Renewed hope has dawned in Nigeria. I understand your pains, your yearnings for good governance, a functional economy and a safe nation that protects you and your future."

He then extended a hand of fellowship to his opponents, Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigerian Peoples Party. Asiwaju Tinubu also commenced Inec for running a free and fair election, pointing out that the lapses that did occur were relatively few in number and were immaterial to the final outcome.

Asiwaju Tinubu added: "Today, Nigeria stands tall as the giant of Africa. It shines even brighter as the continent’s biggest democracy. I thank all who supported my campaign. From President Buhari who adeptly led my campaign as its chairman, to my vice presidential candidate Senator Kashim Shettima.

"To the progressive governors of our party and this nation, to the party leadership, to our loyal party members, I owe you a debt of gratitude. To the entire campaign organisation, I thank you sincerely.

"I thank my loving wife and dear family whose support was ceaseless and inspiring. Without you, this victory would not be possible.

"Finally, I thank the Nigerian people for their abiding belief in our democracy. I shall be a fair leader to all Nigerians. I will be in tune with your aspirations, charge up your energies and harness your talents to deliver a nation that we can be proud of."

He also asked his supporters to let peace reign and tensions fade, pointing out that they ran a principled, peaceful and progressive campaign and the aftermath of their campaign must be as benign. Asiwaju Tinubu said he and Senator Shettima understand the challenges ahead and pledge to listen and to do the difficult things to put Nigeria on the path of irreversible progress.