In a recent news conference held in Abuja, Mr Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Transition Council, revealed that several prominent world leaders have shown keen interest in attending the inauguration of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s 16th President on May 29.
When asked about the number of world leaders expected at the event, Mustapha cited security reasons for not disclosing a specific figure.
He did, however, mention that on the same day, Tinubu would be bestowed with the esteemed title of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), an honor exclusively granted to Nigerian presidents.
The significance of this inauguration extends beyond Nigeria, resonating with the international community and Africa as a whole due to its embodiment of democratic values and nation-building lessons, according to Mustapha.
In line with these principles, the theme for the 2023 transition has been chosen as “Nigeria: Better Together.”
Mustapha further stated that the Presidential Transition Council has engaged with leading democratic nations such as the United States of America and the Republic of Kenya to learn from their experiences and international best practices.
He expressed hope that Nigeria would soon pass specific legislation on presidential transitions, similar to these countries with longstanding legislations dating back to 1963.
Assuring the Nigerian people and the global community, Mustapha emphasized President Muhammadu Buhari’s commitment to a seamless transfer of power to President-Elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In line with this commitment, President Buhari has directed all relevant government institutions to support the transition process by cooperating with Tinubu’s team.
The schedule of activities for the 2023 Presidential Inauguration was also unveiled during the news conference:
Tuesday, May 23, 2023: Regimental Dinner in honor of the Commander in Chief.
Wednesday, May 24, 2023: Valedictory Federal Executive Council Meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Thursday, May 25, 2023: Investiture of the President-Elect and Vice-President-Elect with National Honors, along with the handover of transition documents.
Friday, May 26, 2023: Public Lecture and Jumaat Prayer at the National Mosque.
Saturday, May 27, 2023: Inauguration Lecture by former President Uhuru M. Kenyatta of Kenya, focusing on deepening democracy for integration and development.
Saturday, May 27, 2023: Children’s Day Programme.
Sunday, May 28, 2023: Inter-denominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre, followed by the Inauguration Dinner/Gala Night at the State House Conference Centre.
Monday, May 29, 2023: Inauguration Parade and Swearing-In ceremony at Eagle Square, CBD, followed by a Post Inauguration Luncheon at the State House Banquet Hall, exclusively for the President and invited guests.
Invitations have already been extended to Presidents, Heads of Government, and Heads of International Organizations.
The organizers have made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the safety and security of all individuals throughout the inauguration period.
