By Deborah Christopher
Nigeria’s President-Elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday said he is devoted to building the nation’s economy.
He said that his government will be committed to “an economy of double-digit GDP growth, greater food security and one with a strengthened manufacturing base as well as an active digital economy where young people will have ample space to fulfill their dreams and aspirations.”
According to Tinubu, tremendous growth of the nation’s economy and national competence will be attainable by selecting character and competence in his government.
He said: “As your incoming president, I accept the task before me. There has been talk of a government of national unity. My aim is higher than that. I seek a government of national competence. In selecting my government, I shall not be weighed down by considerations extraneous to ability and performance. The day for political gamesmanship is long gone.
“I shall assemble competent men and women and young people from across Nigeria to build a safer, more prosperous and just Nigeria.
“There shall be young people. Women shall be prominent. Whether your faith leads you to pray in a church or mosque will not determine your place in government. Character and competence will.”
He stated that together with his team have been engaged in daily discussions and meetings refining ideas and policy solutions so as to begin actively working toward the common good the very first day they assume office.
He urged Nigerians to disregard critics that conclude that the All Progressives Congress, APC “is fragmented because of the impressive showing of new parties and their candidates” stating that these critics are wrong and the “emergence of the new parties and their candidates underscores the dynamic strength of” Nigeria’s democracy.
The president-elect advised Nigerians to work in unity and commitment with him in building the nation irrespective of their feelings of the election outcome.
He said: “I ask that we work together as Nigerians for Nigeria. Those who voted for me, I ask that you continue to believe in our policies and plans for the country. I also ask that you reach out to your brothers and sisters who did not vote as you did. Extend to them the hand of friendship, reconciliation and togetherness.
“To those of you who did not vote for me, I ask you to believe in Nigeria and in the capacity of your fellow citizens, even those who voted differently than you. The better Nigeria I seek is not just for me and my supporters. It is equally yours. I do not ask you to abandon your political preferences. That would be undemocratic. I do beseech you to answer the call of patriotic duty as the loyal opposition.”