May 29: Tinubu and 28 Nigerian Governors sworn in offices (Photos)
Bola Tinubu has been sworn in as the 16th President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Kashim Shettima was also sworn in as the Vice President of Nigeria.
Their oath of office was administered by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, at Eagle Square in Abuja.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on 1 March, declared Mr Tinubu,the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the winner of the 25 February presidential election. He defeated 17 other candidates who took part in the election after polling 8,794,726 votes. He also scored over 25 per cent of the votes in over 25 states.
28 Nigerian Governors
Following the successful conclusion of the General Election in Nigeria, 28 States will swear in new and returning administrations today the 29th of May 2023.
The 28 States that would be holding their inauguration today are Abia State, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kwara, Lagos, Nasarawa, Niger, Ogun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, Zamfara
Other election off-season States where the inauguration would not be held are Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Osun and Ondo States.
Kwara State
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has been sworn-in for his second term in office.
The Governor has vowed to remain a responsible and responsive leader for the people of the state.
The inauguration lasted just 45 minutes, kicking off at exactly 8.10 a.m, following the arrival of the governor at 8 a.m.
Both AbdulRazaq and his Deputy, Chief Kayode Alabi, were accompanied by their spouses, Mrs Olufolake AbdulRazaq and Mrs Abieyuwa Alabi, as well as members of their families and friends.
The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Abiodun Adebara, administered the oath on the deputy governor and then the governor.
House of Assembly Speaker, Engineer Yakubu Danladi Salihu led his colleagues to the event, which also had all the senators and House of Representatives members-elect in attendance.
The Grand Kadi, Justice Abdullateef Kamaldeen; Head of Service, Mrs Susan Modupe Oluwole; cabinet members led by Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Mamman Saba Jubril; captains of industry, labour leaders, and media executives.
The Governor, who set out his spending priorities, said the second tenure would see him building on the gains of the last four years — all of which he credited to the support of the people of the state.
His words: “The next four years will consolidate the gains of our first tenure and lay new foundations for sustained socioeconomic development and institutional growth. We are going to deepen the reforms and investments in the critical sectors like education, healthcare delivery, civil service welfare, social safety programmes, general infrastructural upgrade and renewals, focused expansion of our economic base, and promotion of a political culture that advances self-reliance and growth.
“Our spending priorities will be to complete all the ongoing infrastructural projects and iron out the business models to deliver maximum benefits to the people. Adequate attention will be focused on completing projects like the Ilorin International Conference Centre, the Revenue House, Innovation Hub, Visual Arts Centre, Sugar Film Factory, Osi and Ilesha Baruba campuses of the Kwara State University, industrial park, Shea Butter factory in Kaiama, among others. The General Tunde Idiagbon Flyover and the garment factory will be flagged off soon with huge economic benefits. The Ilorin Capital City Master Plan will be followed by a grander Kwara State Master Plan that will cover Kwara South and Kwara North for sustainable living.
“Affordable housing programme will be another priority of this dispensation. This will help civil servants and other citizens to own their own homes. It will also curb unplanned construction and support decent living conditions. In this wise, we will form partnerships with private and federal government agencies to develop new satellite towns already mapped out in the Ilorin City Master Plan as well as in GRA lands in parts of Kwara South and Kwara North.
“In addition to our Kwapreneur initiative that directly puts money in ideas mostly owned by young people, we will consider an annual multidisciplinary scholarship scheme that will be open to our best brains, especially at Postgraduate Level. Beneficiaries will emerge only through a very rigorous process that is transparent. I believe this will hasten the pace of human capital development in different fields.
“A major flaw in our developmental journey as a nation is a culture of government officials determining what projects are executed in a particular community. This has to be reversed, as we have tried to do in our first term, to allow for people-focused development. For this reason, we are setting up a bureau of integrated rural development to be domiciled in the Government House. It will liaise with communities to come up with their needs in order of priorities. This will allow the government to better deploy limited resources in a way that addresses popular needs. Our traditional institutions and community-based organisations will be major players in this regard.
“We shall also deepen our relationships with the organised private sector to strengthen the business climate and create jobs for our youths. This is in realisation that government does not have the resources to do everything.
“We shall also leverage our contacts and goodwill with the Federal Government to ensure timely completion of ongoing federal roads and adequate funding for new ones. We will intensify our lobby of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the dredging of the River Niger. This will save our people from the annual flooding that claims lives and farmlands. It will also boost economic activities in its tributary states like Kwara.
“Distinguished Kwarans, we shall become more intentional in our efforts to improve healthy living through a cleaner environment. I seek your support and understanding as we take bolder policy decisions in this regard.
“Notwithstanding the existing gaps, our investments in basic primary education and healthcare delivery have been acknowledged nationwide. As we recently completed the UBEC Model School at Adeta, I am excited to announce that Kwara State has again been nominated for a bigger international project in basic education whose details will be released later. This is being funded by the Japan International Development Agency. Similarly, only Kwara SUBEB and the FCT have been chosen for international Mathematics training in Japan in July. This attests to the confidence now reposed in Kwara State locally and internationally.
“To strengthen our multifarious initiatives for a better future, I am hereby announcing optional six month maternal leave for female civil servants who wish to practice exclusive breastfeeding to boost life chances for our younger ones. This will also promote maternal health, among other benefits.
“Once again, I thank the Kwara electorate, opinion moulders, traditional and religious institutions, party leaders, and supporters for all the efforts and the goodwill that made today a reality. We will keep our words to remain a responsible government that is responsive to the yearnings of the people within available resources.”
Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, who thanked the attendees, urged the people of the state to continue to support the administration.
He said the government will continue to prioritise the interest of the people over all other considerations.
The Head of Service, Mrs Oluwole had earlier commended the Governor’s first term tenure, which she said was quite fruitful for the civil service and the entire state.
She said that AbdulRazaq practically resuscitated the dignity of the state Civil Service by providing a good working environment for workers, including easy movement of staff.
“Here we are today, we have God to glorify. God has been graceful. You fought gallantly. COVID 19 came, and you fought it like a wounded lion, and Kwara was declared as one of the best fighters. We want to acknowledge that you have been good to kwara, and we are proud of you,” she said.
“Speaking about my constituency, the civil service, I remember the first day after your swearing-in, you asked me about the state of affairs. I said the little that I could, and then you promised to do something, and today we have lived to see to the fulfilment of your promises. Today, I can look back and see thirty-seven vehicles in the same fleet that was empty. I stand boldly to declare that your tenure has been extremely peaceful for us in Kwara, and we urge you to continue along this path.”
Kaduna State
All is set for the Swearing-in of the Governor-elect of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani. Dignitaries are all seated at the Murtala Mohammed Square, awaiting the arrival of the Governor-elect and the outgoing Governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
KADUNA INAUGURATION:
All is set for the Swearing-in of the Governor-elect of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani. Dignitaries are all seated at the Murtala Mohammed Square, awaiting the arrival of the Governor-elect and the outgoing Governor, Nasir El-Rufai. pic.twitter.com/xWnXn6uset
— Voice of Nigeria (@voiceofnigeria) May 29, 2023
Lagos State
Lagos State Governor Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his Deputy Dr Kadiri Hamzat have taken their oath of office the Tafawa Balewa Square Onikan Lagos.
Lagos residents attended the events in thousands to celebrate the 15th Governor of the State.
Despite the heavy down pour the Governor inspected the guard of honor as he exchanged pleasantries with the crowd.
Cross River State
The Cross River State Deputy Governor-elect, Dr. Peter Odey has been sworn into office by the Chief Judge, Justice Akon Ikpeme at the U. J. Esuene stadium where a crowd of supporters and spectators have gathered to witness the epoch making occasion.
Service commanders, traditional rulers, captains of industries as well as a cross section of cultural groups adorned in different arrays of attires and masquerades heralded the arrival of the governor elect, Senator Bassey Otu and his deputy, Dr. Odey to the venue.
Earlier, the outgone governor, Senator Ben Ayade congratulated the incoming governor and urged the people to support the new administration to succeed.
Adamawa State
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa has been sworn -in for a second term of office in Yola.
The Oath of office was administered to the governor by the state Chief judge, Justice Hapsat Abdurrahaman in Yola.
Abdurrahaman also administered the oath of office to the deputy governor, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta.
In his address, the governor thanked the people for their resilience, commitment and dedication to the democratic idles.
He said the 2023 governorship election witnessed an unprecedented drama especially during the supplementary election.
Fintiri said that his administration recorded tremendous achievements in infrastructure, education, agriculture transparency and accountability.
He added that other areas were environment and climate change, food security, civil service reforms ,youth development, commerce and industry and security .
The governor promised to consolidate on the gains recorded in his administration, “The oath we just took is a sacred act not just a constitutional duty,” he said.
Alhaji Attahiru Shehu, the state Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chairman ,thanked the electorate for voting for the party to ensure Fintiri’s second term in office.
The ceremony was attended by former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, traditional rulers politicians ,members of the diplomatic corps and former governors of Adamawa, Boni Haruna and Gombe State, Ibrahim Dankombo.
Katsina State
Malam Dikko Umar-Radda has been sworn-in as the Governor of Katsina State with a promise to provide peace and prosperity for the state.
Umar-Radda who was sworn-in at Muhammad Dikko Stadium, Katsina on Monday stated that “Over the next four years, our task as government is to provide peace and prosperity for the people of Katsina State.
“The insecurity issue will be paramount to this administration, and I will deploy all available resources in ending banditry and criminality across the state, with the will of Allah.
“We will also engage communities to ensure that security is sustained.
“Those affected by banditry and insecurity, I assure you, my administration will do its best to build your lives.
“We will focus on your mental wellbeing and provide special support to women and girls who have endured unimaginable pains,”he said.
The new governor admonished those engaging in banditry to shun the act and reintegrate themselves into the society or be dealt with severely.
He also urged the youth in the state to shun drug abuse, time wasting and all forms of criminality.
“We will work with relevant law enforcement agencies to provide social order and overhaul the security of the state,” he said.
Umar-Radda said that the public sector must be up-scaled to work more efficiently, in line with the strategic policies of the administration
According to him, promotion and placement of the civil/public servants would be entirely on merit, and not through favouritism.
“We will apply stick and carrot measures in our approach to rewarding performance. We will establish key performance indicators across all cadres in the public service,” he said.
The governor said that his administration would develop agricultural value chain along essential commodities and ensure that every local government benefitted from the activities in which it had comparative and competitive advantages.
On education, he said that best students would have access to world-class academic facilities across the state.
“I call on all teachers to embrace our drive to improve the educational system so that we can produce students who can compete with their peers in Nigeria.
“Our future development will depend on the educated population ready to contribute to the state.
“We will also focus on technical and vocational education for those who need skills to become productive in the society,” he said.
Umar-Radda further stated that government would improve access to quality healthcare at all levels and support small-scale businesses with new initiatives.
He also said that his administration would introduce Treasury Single Account (TSA) to strengthen accountability and close all loopholes in the financial system.
The governor further stated that government would conduct comprehensive staff audit to eliminate ghost workers to ensure that public servants serve the government efficiently.
He expressed his administration’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, to bring development to the people of the state.
The governor, who noted that politics was now over, said that he belonged to every person in the state, hence the need for all to join hands with him and move the state forward.
He warned that he would not hesitate to change any member of his administration who failed to deliver on his mandate, as the people of the state deserved nothing less from his government.
Gombe State
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has also taken his oath of office for a second tenure.
The oath was administered by the Chief Judge of Gombe State, Justice Halima Mohammed at the Pantami Township stadium, Gombe at the governor’s swearing-in.
The governor also reviewed a parade mounted by the Nigeria Police Force.
In his inaugural speech, Yahaya said he regarded oath-taking as a strong commitment and would work to ensure that he did not disappoint the people of Gombe state.
He added that he would consolidate on his first term achievements and ensure that the interests of the people of Gombe state were given utmost priority.
“Now that the elections are over, the business of governance must continue apace.
“As always, I call on all stakeholders across partisan divides to join hands and move our state forward.
“On my part, I shall be just and fair to all irrespective of political, ethnic, religious and sectional affiliations.
“The collective interest of Gombe state supersedes all other interests and considerations,’’ he said.
Borno State
The Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum and his Deputy, Alhaji Umar Kadafur, have taken oath of office for the second term.
The Chief Judge of the State, Justice Kashim Zanna administered the oath of office to them..
Speaking at the ceremony, the governor thanked the people of Borno for voting him into office for the second time.
He said that during his first tenure, his administration executed over 700 projects and hoped to do more during the second term.
Zulum, who announced his plan to tour 27 LGAs of the state, said during the tour he would interact with stakeholders on priority projects for implementation in their respective areas.
The governor expressed joy over the return of peace to Borno, adding that the development had led to the return and resettlement of over one million displaced persons across the state.
“I stand here with the greatest sense of responsibility to you, the good people of Borno State.
” I accept the mandate to begin our shared journey, which we hope will be of enduring stability and prosperity for a second term of four years, insha’Allah.
“For me, serving you, the good people of Borno State has been the greatest honour of my life and I hereby reaffirm that,” he said.
Zulum promised that he would never lose focus in the discharge of his obligations to the people of the state.
Niger State
The Niger State Governor, Muhammed Umar Bago has taken his oath of office in Minna the Niger State Capital.
Chief justice of the state, Justice Halima Ibrahim Abdulmalik administered the oath to Governor Bago and his Deputy.
Addressing the crowd after the swearing in, Governor Muhammed Umar Bago appreciated the people of the State for their support during his campaign and the election.
“I am extremely humbled and grateful to ALLAH (SWT) for making today possible; this is a day that will resonate in my mind as the beginning of a new chapter in the history of a New Niger State.
“Let me begin by assuring all Nigerlites that your overwhelming support and admiration of our Party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) throughout the campaigns and your votes during the 2023 general elections will not be taken for granted, as we are here to serve you, and I will be a governor for all the citizens of Niger State, irrespective of religious, ethnic, socio-economic backgrounds and political affiliations”
Ebonyi State
Mr Francis Nwifuru has been inaugurated as the Governor of Ebonyi State Southeast Nigeria with the promise to the people of the State of an all inclusive governance.
The Governor made this promise immediately after his swearing- in at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium in Abakaliki the State Capital.
He said his administration will touch all sectors to ensure the general wellbeing of Ebonyi people.
“Through the instrument of democracy which I am going to dwell in, our state can be more united”.
He also paid tribute to the Founding Fathers of the State.
The immediate past Governor of the State, Engr David Umahi encouraged the people to respect the new Governor and the laws of the land.
Umahi thanked the former Governors and Military leaders of the State.
The Swearing in started with holy mass officiated by the the Bishop Emeritus of Abakaliki Catholic Diocese, Micheal Okoro.
Abia State
Dr Alex Otti has been sworn in as the new governor of Abia state.
Otti took his oath of office at midday during the inauguration held at the Umuahia Township Stadium.
He was sworn in by the Abia Chief Judge, Hon. Justice Lilian Abai, with Otti ‘s deputy, Ikechi Valentine Emetu present.
Peter Obi was represented by the vice presidential candidate, Yusuf Baba Ahmed.
At exactly 12:19pm, I took the oath of office as the 5th democratically elected Governor of Abia State. pic.twitter.com/7Kfp1hU3kI
— Alex Otti (@alexottiofr) May 29, 2023
Akwa Ibom State
Pastor Umo Eno, as well as Senator Akon Eyankenyi have been sworn in as the fifth democratically elected governor and deputy governor of Akwa Ibom State, respectively, by the State Chief judge, Justice Ekaette Obot.
Speaking shortly after the swearing-in ceremony at the Godswill International Stadium, Uyo, the Governor lamented that the state had been too polarized by politics and promised to set up a bi-partisan reconciliation committee soon, to address contending issues of the people.
According to him, “I call on our people to come together, let’s build s State where the pain of one Akwaibomite is the pain of all, and where the success of one Akwaibomite is the success for all.
“We have been too polarized by politics. This should not be. As I said in my Victory Speech, we will set up a bi-partisan reconciliation committee soon, so we can jaw-jaw instead of war-war on critical issues of our development, unity and brotherhood.”
He, therefore, called on the people to support his ARISE agenda to build on the legacies of the immediate past Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, saying he would be the Governor of all Akwa Ibom people irrespective of their political leanings.
“As we begin this government, we will invite all Akwa Ibomites to arise to the faith of greatness with our ARISE agenda from investment in agriculture, health care services and education; we will ensure that we continue changing the narratives of our state.
“We will continue to support our state civil servants, and we will ensure that their welfare becomes paramount. We will continue to build on the successes of Deacon Udom Gabriel Emmanuel’s administration,” he added.
He pleaded with Emmanuel not to desert him after he exists office, saying his efforts and that of past governors of the state had placed Akwa Ibom State on its current pedestal with their achievements.
Plateau State
The newly sworn-in Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has assured that “tribe and faith” will not be used as tools for division during his administration.
Mutfwang stated this while delivering his inaugural speech after he was sworn in as the sixth executive governor of the state at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos, the state capital, by the Chief Judge of the state, Justice David Mann.
While appreciating the people of the state for giving him the privilege to serve as their governor, he said: “We know you are expecting much from us; we will trust God for wisdom and enablement not to fail you.”
He further declared that his inauguration “marks the beginning of our collective quest for a new plateau,” as he gave the assurance that “we shall work round the clock to provide the quality of leadership and governance that our dear citizens deserve and yearn for.”
The governor also emphasised the importance of the Plateau brotherhood, irrespective of tribe or faith.
“While it is true that I have a tribe and faith, I want to assure you that I will use these identities as positive values to enhance our common good.
“I, therefore, welcome you all to the new Plateau where tribe and faith will no longer be tools for division but rich multi-coloured threads to be weaved into strong ropes that will pull us together for unity and progress,” he said.
Gov Mutfwang avowed that he understood clearly the enormity of the task before him, saying, “I have no illusions that it is going to be an easy ride.”
According to him: “The state is presently under a huge debt burden of over 200 billion naira; the healthcare sector is in need of urgent attention; our school system requires a comprehensive overhaul; our infrastructure is decayed and inadequate, and practically, every sector requires urgent redress.
“I must mention that there are no quick-fix solutions to these challenges, but one thing is certain: we are prepared to take the challenges head-on and we will hit the ground running immediately.”
He promised to muster the political will every step of the way to initiate policies and programmes that will engender peace, progress, and prosperity in our land.
Rivers State
Siminalayi Fubara has been sworn in as Governor of Rivers State, alongside Professor Ngozi Ordu as Deputy Governor.
Fubara was sworn in at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt on Monday.
He succeeded the former governor, Nyesom Wike, after winning the governorship election on March 25 on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
Professor Ordu is the second female to become Deputy Governor in the state.
Speaking during his first speech as governor of the state, Fubara assured residents of Rivers State of his resolve to continue in the leadership style of Governor Wike and build on his achievements.
He promised civil servants early payment of their monthly salaries, pensions, and gratuities.
“We will follow his footsteps to balance consolidation and continuity. We will consolidate the developmental strides of the previous administration. To the Rivers State House of Assembly, we will work together to advance the common interest and goal for all,” he stated.
Zamfara State
Dr Dauda Lawal was on Monday sworn in as a new Governor of Zamfara State amidst jubilation from the party faithful and the people of the state .
The chief judge of the state Justice Kulu Aliyu administered the oath of allegiance on Dauda and his deputy Mallam Mani Mumuni Mudi, and urged them to abide by the oath they took
Speaking shortly after the swearing in, Lawal said he had vision for new Zamfara, stressing he threw his hat into the ring to rescue Zamfara from maladministration of previous administrations.
He maintained that his governments would give top priority to insecurity bedeviling the state as a result of bandits activities.
He noted that he would collaborate with federal government and security agencies to contain the banditry .
He further reiterated that education sector would also be given attention saying teacher’s salary and allowances would be promptly paid to motivate them to enable them perform better.
On economy, he said his government will improve on internally generated revenue and also attract investors to invest where the state has comparative advantage.
He stated that all the money that will accrue to the state would be judiciously used for the benefits of the citizenry.
On youth and women empowerment, he said he will create wealth and jobs for teeming youth and also provide social intervention to assist women and vulnerable in the state.
He explained that Agriculture which is the main stay of the people of the state will be given attention , saying fertilizer and farm inputs will be provided for farmers in a subsidize rate
The Governor promised to equip and rehabilitate primary and secondary health care to enable them provide quality heath service delivery.
He also promised to provide free medical services for children and pregnant women to reduce infant mortality.
He sought the cooperation of all stakeholders in the state, saying the problem facing the state are surmountable.
Those who graced the event include the former Governor of Sokoto state Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, former Minister of Defence Maj Gen Aliyu Gusau, heads of military, paramilitary and party supporters.
Yobe State
Mai Mala Buni was, on Monday, inaugurated as the fourth democratically-elected governor of Yobe, with a pledge that he would serve the state with dignity and honour.
Speaking at the inauguration in Damaturu on Monday, Buni thanked the people of the state for finding him worthy of being re-elected for a second term in office.
“We are indeed very grateful. I extend hands of fellowship to all and sundry to join us in the task of building our dear state.
“It is a duty we must discharge with dignity and honour. We are first and foremost collective stakeholders, dedicated to making Yobe State peaceful and prosperous, irrespective of any differences,” he said.
The governor noted that his first tenure had recorded tremendous success in security, health care, agriculture, commerce, infrastructure, mass housing, water resources, environment, governance, mineral resources, law and order, public service reform and ease of doing business.
He listed some of the achievements to include: resettling of persons displaced by Boko Haram, rehabilitation of all schools destroyed by the insurgents and rehabilitation and upgrade of 138 primary health care centres.
Others, he said, were the establishment of livestock development centres in three senatorial districts, completion of three modern markets, construction of 2,500 housing units and enactment of Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, among others.
The governor paid special tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for his ‘enormous support’ to the state and wished him well in his future endeavours.
“President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, Jagoran Talakawa, occupies a special place in my heart and the hearts of all Yobeans. We thank Allah the Almighty for enabling him to complete his eight-year tenure peacefully and strongly.
“Allah endowed him with excellent health to the pleasure of his teeming well-wishers. Alhamdulillah. His administration had invested in the largest infrastructural development and had restored the integrity and dignity of all Nigerians.
“I enjoyed a special relationship with President Buhari. I consulted him regularly for fatherly advice and will continue to do so.
“As the president retires to Daura and into the hall of elder statesmen, I wish him Allah’s blessings, excellent health and happy retirement,” he said.
Mr Buni congratulated President Bola Tinubu and Vice- President Kashim Shettima for their election and inauguration, assuring them of his maximum cooperation.
“President Tinubu deserved to be elected, more than any of the presidential candidates, given that he was at the forefront of restoring democracy in Nigeria.
“On behalf of the good people of Yobe State, I assure him and the vice-president of our commitment and support in the onerous task ahead,” he said.
Taraba State
“I am humbled to be sworn-in as the Governor of Taraba, today. It’s a new dawn in our history as a State, and People – I am privileged to be your Servant-Leader. I am committed to serving you all with tact, and dedication to the development of our Society. Let’s LEAD together.”
I am humbled to be sworn-in as the Governor of Taraba, today. It's a new dawn in our history as a State, and People – I am privileged to be your Servant-Leader. I am committed to serving you all with tact, and dedication to the development of our Society.
Let's LEAD together. pic.twitter.com/6LDHfLrbEa
— Agbu Kefas ⏩ (@GovAgbuKefas) May 29, 2023
Sokoto State
Dr Ahmed Aliyu was on Monday sworn-in as Sokoto State governor at a ceremony in Giginya Stadium, Sokoto.
The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Sa’idu Sifawa, administered the oath of office to Aliyu shortly after Malam Idris Gobir, his deputy had taken his oath of office.
In his inaugural speech Aliyu, invited the opposition in the state to join hands with him toward rebuilding the state.
“We have the desire for a new Sokoto State that will be accepted by all the citizens, as such I called on those that contested and failed the mandate to join us in the realisation of our dream,” he said.
The governor also assured that his administration would be all inclusive.
“We want to assure you that we will not disappoint you for the mandate giving to us and will continue to seek your advice on all our decision.
“More so, the administration will continue to focus more on youth empowerment, security, sanitation, water supply, education and economic drive.
“This is in order to ensure we fulfilled our pledged of restoring the fast glory of Sokoto State,” he said.
The ceremony was witnessed by the Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, former governors, Sen. Aliyu Wamakko and Malam Yahaya Abdulkarim.
Others were former Deputy Governors, Alhaji Chiso Dattijo and Alhaji Mukhtari Shagari, former ambassadors, Sahabi Gada and Abubakar Makama.
There were also officials from neighbouring Niger Republic among others.
Oyo State
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and his deputy, Barrister Abdulraheem Adebayo Lawal, have been sworn-in for another term in office.
Makinde and his deputy were re-elected in March this year.
He took the oath of office around 10:50 am on Monday.
His deputy, Lawal, had earlier taken the oath of office before the governor.
PulseNets reports that the event took place at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in the Oke-Ado area of Ibadan.
The Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima, administrated the oath of office on the duo.
The event was attended by clerics, traditional rulers, political party leaders and other stakeholders in the state.
Ogun State
The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has been sworn in for a second term in office.
Abiodun and his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele were sworn in by the Chief Justice of Ogun state, Mosunmola Dipeolu, on Monday, at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.
The governor won his second term bid after defeating the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Ladi Adebutu, in the March 18 governorship election in the state.
However, Adebutu, has filed a suit challenging the victory of Abiodun and the All Progressives Congress at the election tribunal.
Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, and his Deputy, Emmanuel Akabe, have been sworn in for a second term in office.
The duo who were first elected into office in 2019, were sworn in by the State Chief Judge, Aisha Bashir-Aliyu at a colourful inauguration ceremony held in Lafia, the state capital on Monday.
Speaking at the event, Governor Sule who was full of smiles, thanked residents of the state for re-electing him and his deputy for a second term in office.
He appealed to politicians across the 13 Local Government Areas of the state irrespective of political affiliations to give his administration the needed support to enable him and his deputy to take the state to greater heights in the next four years.
Governor Sule said, “I consider your free-minded votes as an affirmation of our stewardship of the past and an endorsement of our determination for the future, to continue to focus our vision, creativity, energy, and preoccupation with developmental and harmonious governance.
“The electioneering campaign did not go without occasional acrimony from some quarters, intended to disrupt our collective sense of mission and cohesion as peaceful people of Nasarawa State.
“This is why I commend your steadfastness in shunning and standing against all the provocations intended to divide our people for selfish political gains. I urge you all to remain steadfast and to be on your guard. We cannot afford to do otherwise, because the prize of liberty is eternal vigilance.
“I extend my hand of fellowship to our brothers who have contested under other political parties and have either won or lost, to join us in our resolve to move Nasarawa State forward. The election has come and gone, the task ahead of us now is the supremacy of the security and welfare of our people.
“I assure you, my brothers and sisters, the good people of Nasarawa State and, indeed, development partners within and across our borders that my Administration remains resolute, more than ever before, in our vision to sustain accelerated growth, increase economic opportunities and prosperity, social inclusion and improve the quality of lives of the citizenry.”
Kebbi State
The newly sworn in governor of Kebbi state, Dr Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu, has pledged to rebuild the state within four years of his administration.
He said he would not betray the trust and burden of leadership given to him by people of Kebbi state. He added that elections are over, noting that it’s time for governance without malice, hatred and victimization.
Idris noted that he would run an all-inclusive government as he intends to return governance to the people of Kebbi state.
Kano State
A podium at the Sani Abacha Stadium where dignitaries were seated during the inauguration of the new Kano State governor, Abba Kabir, has collapsed.
PulseNets witnessed the podium collapsing shortly after Mr Kabir was sworn in and delivered an inauguration speech.
He was about to leave the podium to the VIP seats in the stadium when the incident happened. He was sandwiched by security agents including the police commissioner, Ahmad Gumel.
The event was cut short as the new governor was unable to supervise the parade due to the throng of supporters at the stadium.
The crowd of NNPP supporters wearing red caps soon became uncontrollable. They booed and stoned the Emirs of Kano and Bichi, Aminu Bayero, and Nasiru Bayero, who were at the event, with sachets and bottled water.
The event was concluded as of 11 a.m. but up to the time of filing this report, security agents are still devising means for the safe evacuation of the emirs.
The Kwankwasiyya followers, as the NNPP supporters are also called, consider the emirs as being sympathetic to the All Progressives Congress party.
Jigawa State
Mallam Umar Namadi and his Deputy, Aminu Usman Gumel have been sworn in as Jigawa State care takers for the next four years.
The oath of office was administered by the state chief Judge, Justice Umar Sadiq Maigari held at Aminu Kano Triangle, Dutse, the state capital.
Malam Umar Namadi of APC won the governorship election after he scored 618,449 of the total votes cast to defeat his opponent Mustapha Sule Lamido of the PDP who polled 368,726 votes.
In his inauguration speech after taking an oath of office, Governor Umar Namadi promised to continue to build on Badaru’s legacies.
“We will continue to build a strong economy, create jobs, expand access to quality education and enhance healthcare services in the state”
“We will make investments in critical infrastructure to facilitate travel and commerce across the state”
Enugu State
Barr Peter Mbah has been sworn-in as the Governor of Enugu State.
Mbah took his oath of office at the Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, at about 11:50 am on Monday.
The oath was administered by the Chief Judge of Enugu State, Justice Raymond Ozoemena.
His Deputy, Barr Ifeanyi Ossai took his oath of office a few minutes earlier.
The immediate past Governor, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi was at the event, alongside his Deputy, Barr Cecelia Ezeilo.
Some of the dignitaries at the event included former governor of old Anambra State, Senator Jim Nwobodo, former governor of old Enugu State, Chief Okwy Nwodo, former governor, Barr Sullivan Chime, Senator Chukwuka Utazi, Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Ubosi, among others.
In his inaugural speech, Mbah promised to transform Enugu into a beautiful symphony of development.
Mbah, who declared that governance philosophy of his administration will be based on transparency, accountability and fund traceability, announced that, “as I leave here now, I will head for the office to perform my first executive task as your governor. That task will be to sign Executive Order 001. It is called the Citizens’ Charter.”
Delta State
As Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa bows out of office, he has urged the newly sworn-in Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori and his Deputy, Monday Onyeme to look up to God for guidance and direction throughout their tenure in office.
Okowa spoke at the inauguration ceremony of Oborevwori and Onyeme at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
He said Governor Oborevwori will be able to surpass his achievements in the last eight years in office if he looks up to God.
According to Okowa, “The Lord is on the throne and his mercies and grace are all-sufficient. It will be well with you throughout your tenure.”
Okowa who noted that his eight years in office were characterised by trials and triumphs, referred the duo to Psalm 72:12 in the holy bible.
Oborevwori was sworn in by the Chief Judge of Delta State after his oath of allegiance.
In his speech, the new Governor said, “I accept with humility the responsibility which the good people of Delta State have bestowed on me to serve Delta State.”
Governor Oborevwori said he agreed to serve to do more economically and developmentally for the people of the state.
He also paid glowing tributes to the immediate past governor of Delta State, Arthur Ifeanyi Okowa just as he promised to move the State to greater heights through his “MORE AGENDA” programme and others.
Governor Oborevwori also promised to provide empowerment programmes for the women of the State.
Benue State
Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, a Catholic priest, has been sworn in as the Governor of Benue State.
He took over from Samuel Ortom, whose tenure elapsed on Monday, May 29.
The inauguration ceremony, held at the IBB Square in Makurdi, marked a significant milestone for both the state and the clergy.
Dignitaries, religious leaders and citizens from across the state gathered to witness this remarkable event.
Reverend Father Alia, alongside his deputy, Sam Odeh, who took the oath of office, pledged to serve the people of Benue State with utmost sincerity, transparency and accountability.
Bauchi State
The Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has been sworn in for a second term in office.
Mohammed and his deputy, Auwal Jatau, were accompanied by their spouses, friends, and family members to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, where they were sworn in.
The oaths of office and allegiance were administered to both Mohammed and his deputy by the Chief Judge of the state, Rabi Umar.
Shortly after being sworn in, Mohammed, in a speech titled: “My Bauchi Project: consolidating the mandate to place Bauchi first,” said he accepted his re-election for another term as a call to serve not because he was the most qualified but because it was a divine mandate.
He said his re-election represented a validation of his performance during his first term in office, adding that he would do more.
Mohammed said, “Looking into the faces of the exuberant crowd of our patriots here present, I recognize the overwhelming significance of this moment. I appreciate the trust that has been reposed in our administration by the majority of our people who voted for me.
“I am conscious that my re-election signifies the endorsement of the manifesto of our great party and the “My Bauchi Project” agenda on which platforms I ran for election in 2019. I am honoured that today’s inauguration represents a validation of the performance of our administration during the first term.
“But it goes beyond that. I see it as a summons to do more. Not as governor of the Peoples Democratic Party under whose platform I ran or any partisan or sectarian interest but for everyone residing in Bauchi State: indigene and non-indigene, citizen and foreigner, rich and poor, no matter one’s station in life.”
Mohammed scored his administration during the first term high in terms of delivery of dividends of democracy to the people in various sectors including education, health, security, revenue generation, infrastructural development, payment of salaries, gratuities and pensions.
He said his administration inherited a huge debt portfolio in excess of N100bn made up preponderantly of the Paris Club, Budget Support and the Bailout Fund, and some foreign loans with the repayment of these loans mandatory and deductible from the source.
According to him, we have repaid over 50 per cent of the debt, a situation that has exposed the state to serious economic constraints, especially in view of the dwindling resources both nationally and internationally.
He explained that right from inception, his administration was compelled to devise creative strategies for meeting the huge expectations of the people.
“Without a strong private sector capable of complementing the role of government as the major employer of labour, Bauchi State has always carried a huge wage bill. In fact, more than 80% of the allocation to the state from the Federation account goes into the payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities.
“Unfortunately, before the advent of this administration, the issue of salaries, pensions and gratuities had been mired in corruption and lack of accountability. To compound matters, on the assumption of office, we met a scenario where months would pass without the payment of salaries,” the governor said.
Mohammed added that despite the bold steps taken in the areas of financial reforms and the governance environment, he was pained that the challenge of gratuity payment defied the intentions and efforts of his administration during his first tenure.
He said, “It is for this reason that despite settling over N4bn without accumulating new ones, we still have about N23bn outstanding, inherited from previous administrations in the state.
“Notwithstanding the financial constraints we encountered, we constructed over 1,000 kilometres of urban and rural roads, connecting major commercial areas with markets and providing access to basic social services.
“Our urban renewal efforts not only eased transportation bottlenecks but also drastically reduced the heavy incidence of accidents that had hitherto overwhelmed the medical facilities with mind-boggling orthopaedic cases.”
He promised that during his second term, he would consolidate the achievements of his first term and deliver the dividends of democracy and good governance to the people for trusting him with the mandate to lead them again.
