Former Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has apologized to Nigerians over some decisions he took that brought pains and sufferings to the citizens of Nigeria.
Buhari who tendered the apology in a farewell address to Nigerians gave himself a pass mark, saying he is leaving Nigeria better than he met it in 2015.
He, however, regretted that his administration was unable to rescue some children still in captivity and said he mourned with parents, friends, and relatives of all those who lost loved ones as a result of senseless brigandage and carnage.
“During revamping the economy, we made some difficult choices, most of which yielded the desired results. Some measures led to temporary pain and suffering, for which I sincerely apologize to my fellow countrymen, but the measures were taken for the overall good of the country”.
Up-till now, I grieve for our children who are still in captivity, mourn with parents, friends, and relatives of all those that lost loved ones in the days of the senseless brigandage and carnage.
For all those under unlawful captivity, our security agencies are working round the clock to secure their release unharmed.
“Our battle to ensure that all Nigerians live in a safe and secure environment has achieved considerable results. As I complete my term in office, we have been able to reduce the incidences of banditry, terrorism, armed robbery and other criminal activities considerably.
“As I retire home to Daura, Katsina State, I feel fulfilled that we have started the Nigeria Re-Birth by taking the initial critical steps, and I am convinced that the in-coming administration will quicken the pace of this walk to see a Nigeria that fulfills its destiny to be a great nation. I am confident that I am leaving office with Nigeria better in 2023 than in 2015.”
Buhari urged Nigerians to capitalize on the power of unity by working together in one spirit and purpose
Buhari said, “As your President, I call on all of us to bring to bear the strength of our individualism, the power of our unity, the convictions of our beliefs to make Nigeria work better and together with one spirit and one purpose.
“To my brother, friend and fellow worker in the political terrain for the past 10 years – Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I congratulate you on the realization of your dream, which was propelled by a burning passion to put Nigeria among the leading nations of the world.
“You have indeed worked for this day, and God has crowned your efforts. I have no doubt that your passion for excellence, reliance on competence, fairness in relationships, commitment to equity, loyalty to the country and desire for Nigeria to be globally relevant would come through for you, under God’s guidance, as you lead our country to levels higher than I am leaving.
“You are the best candidate amongst all the contestants, and Nigerians have chosen well. The last eight years have been an exciting experience in my desire and commitment to see a Nigeria in which public goods and services are available and accessible within a united, peaceful and secure nation.”