NIGERIAN NEW PRESIDENT SWORN IN

SOURCE BBC

The new president of Nigeria, has been sworn in at a ceremony in the capital, Abuja.Bola Tinubu, 71, won February’s election with a promise to renew hope – but he faces tough economic and security challenges.He takes over from two-term President Muhammadu Buhari amid a high inflation rate, record debt levels and increasing cases of kidnap-for-ransom.

Mr Tinubu’s victory is being challenged in court by his two closest rivals who say the outcome was manipulated.Dignitaries from across the continent attended the swearing-in ceremony in the capital, Abuja, reflecting the significance of the event.Since the election he has travelled abroad twice, raising questions about his health.

In 2021 he spent months in London being treated for an undisclosed illness.He has brushed off the criticism, saying the job does not require the fitness of an Olympic athlete – and his associates are quick to remind everyone that US President Joe Biden is older, at 80.