Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd.) declared on Thursday in Abuja that he had ran a decent race and had completed his course as Nigeria’s leader for the previous eight years.
As a result, he stated, it is necessary for him to hand over the baton of leadership to another leader who would lead the country for the next four years.
Buhari made the remarks after bestowing the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic and the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger on President-elect Bola Tinubu and Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima, respectively.
The national honors ceremony, which took place in the State House Conference Center of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was part of the schedule of events for the 2023 Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, which is scheduled for Monday, May 29.
He also handed over transition documents and passed the baton of service to the President-elect.
Buhari stated at the gathering, “I am confident that Nigeria is in capable hands as we embark on this new chapter.”
“I have run a good race. I have finished my course. It is now time for another to take up the baton.”
“Once again, I congratulate President-elect, Bola Tinubu and Vice President-elect Kashim Shettima on their well-deserved investiture.”
Meanwhile, President-Elect, Tinubu, said he understands the honour conferred upon him and his VP-elect and the magnitude of the task ahead.
He asked Buhari to expect ‘knocks on your doors” whether he retires to Daura or Niger Republic.
“I understand the honour given to me today and the magnitude of the task ahead, whether you go to Daura or Niger Republic, expect knocks on your doors,” said Tinubu.
Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, who is also the Chairman of the Presidential Transition Council, said the Transition package includes three key documents.