"I belong to everybody and I belong to nobody" - New Nigerian President's inaugural speech

The new President saluted the the resolve of Nigerians who voted in spite of the rigours and shortcomings of the past election.

Nigeria's new president, Muhammadu Buhari, after being sworn-in and the release of the ceremonial white doves - signaling freedom and a new era, proceeded to give his inaugural speech today at the Eagles Square, Abuja.

He started by thanking the past president, Goodluck Jonathan, and social media users for the support throughout the entire process.

The president saluted the the resolve of Nigerians who voted in spite of the rigours and shortcomings of the past election. He then said that he belonged to everybody and nobody, metaphorically affirming his stand against favoritism and penchant for service.

He also thanked those who did not vote for him but supported the system to ensure that the country had a functional democracy. He thanked Chad and the Niger Republic for supporting the country in the fight against Boko Haram and stated categorically that his government would not interfere with the legislative system.

"From tomorrow we face enormous challenges, but we must not succumb to hopelessness," said Buhari. "I am grateful for the efforts of our past leaders. Daunting as this task may be, It is not insurmountable."

He promised to reform and rebuild the public service to ensure effectiveness and admonished the the media and social media to exercise their freedom with responsibility and a sense of patriotism. The President also noted that the administration can work without the support of union, the press, and civil organisations.

Buhari also said that the military command centre would no longer be situated in Abuja but in Maiduguri until Boko Haram was defeated and that no one can claim to have defeated Boko Haram until the Chibok girls, as well as other hostages being held by the Islamic sect have been rescued. He also assured that his government will guard against every form of human rights violation, adding that it was a national shame that Nigeria as a country of over 120 million people, only generates 4000MW of electricity.

Furthermore, he noted that it has been a long time since Nigeria enjoyed as much international goodwill as it did at the moment, reiterating his appreciation for the support, advice and messages from the all the countries that have shown concern for the countries plight.