Nigeria: Jonathan sworn in as president for a full four year term
By Correspondent Chinyere Ogbonna – President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has been sworn in for his first full elected term as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on Sunday May 29, 2011.
Heads of state from across Africa, foreign dignitaries, religious leaders and traditional rulers gathered in Eagle Square in the centre of Abuja , the nation’s capital for the swearing-in ceremony and military parade to mark the start of his four-year term.
Dr. Jonathan who won elections held in April, said in his inaugural speech “As president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria I will discharge my duties to the best of my ability, faithfully and in accordance with the constitution”.
Speaking during the Presidential inaugural dinner on Saturday, the President restated that the just concluded elections that brought him to power was not a contest between the north or south or between Christianity and Islam, but a referendum by the Nigerian people to vote on the competing vision for the future of Nigeria
Commending the variety of political leaders and parties who voted massively for peace during and after the elections, the President expressed his gratitude to all Nigerians for their support and confidence in the past four years despite the fierce nature of the political contests.
President Jonathan above all things promised to serve with the fear of God while soliciting the prayers of the clergy and indeed all Nigerians for Gods wisdom to take Nigeria to greater height.
He called on all hands to be on deck to build a nation of unity and faith, peace and progress which has been the dream of the founding fathers.
