Uhuru's advice to Nigeria President-elect Bola Tinubu

Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta has challenged Nigeria’s incoming President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu to entrench democracy during his four-year term as the leader of the West African nation.

Speaking during the 2023 Presidential Inauguration Lecture held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, Nigeria, Uhuru said democracy is key in spurring development in any country, especially in Africa.

In his address at the event themed “Deepening Democracy for Development”, Uhuru shared his experience as a head of state for two terms.

He acknowledged the successes, failures and opportunities of embracing democracy.

He named negative ethnicity, tribalism and economic greed as the three most fundamental threats to democracy.

"I feel the three most fundamental issues that are easily weaponised to the detriment of our democratic growth. The first is negative ethnicity or tribalism, followed by religion, and lastly, economic greed," Uhuru said.

He expressed confidence that if the continent addressed the issues in earnest, it would begin to harness its mineral wealth, agricultural potential and abundant human capital.

The former Head of State called on Tinubu to unite all Nigerians irrespective of religion, tribe, political and other affiliations.

He further urged him to embrace the inclusivity of all parties for a better Country.

"I speak to you as a brother and an elder statesman in leadership. The contest is now over and the hard work of building a prosperous and unified Nigeria begins,” he said.

Acknowledging the President-elect's task once he assumes office, Uhuru urged Tinubu to become Nigeria's vision bearer.

"I encourage you to surround yourself with the voices of those who will counterbalance the hardliners who feel entitled to a piece of your office. You will lose nothing and gain everything from reaching out to those who may feel aggrieved by your victory in one way or another. Allow them to exhale and to be a part of your vision for a greater Nigeria,” he urged.

The former Head of State congratulated the people of Nigeria for holding peaceful elections.

He further commended all the contestants for expressing their political views and urged them to shun divisive politics.

The outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari also attended the ceremony.

He noted that democracy was not merely a system of governance but a way of life that requires active participation, inclusivity, and relentless pursuit of justice and fairness.

Also present was Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima, Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria National Assembly Ahmed Idris, among other dignitaries.

The Presidential Inauguration Lecture is organised by the Nigeria Presidential Transition Council to bridge the divisions prevalent in Nigerian society, foster dialogue, and promote collective responsibility toward national development.

It is part of the activities organised to commemorate Nigeria's seventh consecutive civilian transition.

(Edited by Tabnacha O)