Bola Tinubu, aged 71, has been officially sworn in as the President of Nigeria in an important ceremony held in the capital city of Abuja.
Tinubu emerged as the winner of the February election, offering a promise to restore hope to the nation, but he faces formidable hurdles including economic and security challenges.
Taking the reins from two-term President Muhammadu Buhari, Tinubu steps into a situation marked by a high inflation rate, record levels of debt, and an alarming rise in cases of kidnap-for-ransom incidents.
The outcome of his victory is being challenged in court by his closest rivals, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi who allege manipulation in the electoral process.
The swearing-in ceremony in Abuja has attracted dignitaries from across the continent, underscoring the significance of this pivotal moment for Nigeria.
The country grapples with a concerning economic landscape, with inflation currently at its highest level in nearly 18 years. One in three Nigerians faces unemployment, while the vital oil industry is experiencing a decline in output.
Tinubu must swiftly tackle the task of winning over those who did not vote for him, as he seeks to address the complex issues facing the nation. As a trained accountant and a former two-term governor of Lagos, he brings a wealth of experience to the table.
Tinubu is known for revitalizing Lagos, Nigeria's commercial hub, a challenging feat in itself, which has acquainted him with the intricacies of Nigeria's pressing needs.
Supporters of the new president assert that he will adopt a technocratic and thoughtful approach to governance, applying the same successful strategies that propelled Lagos forward.
However, opponents of Tinubu argue that he has lost the vigor he once displayed in his efforts to modernize Lagos forcefully. They question his ability to tackle the nation's challenges with the same drive and vitality.
The outcome of Tinubu's presidency may hinge on the ongoing legal battle initiated by his closest rivals. The election tribunal is set to commence the hearing of the main arguments on Tuesday, with a verdict expected within the next six months.
This legal dispute adds a layer of uncertainty to the new administration, underscoring the importance of the court's decision in shaping Nigeria's political landscape.
