”I am deeply grateful to all Nigerians. The best way for me to repay you is to rededicate myself to serving you” – President Muhammadu Buhari

Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, who arrived the country yesterday morning after his 51-day medical leave in London (read here) has addressed the nation, expressing gratitude to Nigerians for all the prayers and show of goodwill.

Buhari, who spoke at a meeting he held with government officials shortly after arriving at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, also appealed to Nigerians to continue praying for the country’s progress, and pledged to rededicate himself to the service of the nation.

”I am deeply grateful to all Nigerians, Muslims and Christians alike who have prayed and have continued to pray for my good health. This is a testimony that in spite of the hardship being experienced, Nigerians support the government in its effort to tackle our country’s challenges.

The best way for me to repay you is to rededicate myself to serving you, protecting your interest and keeping your trust. I thank you very much. I am feeling much better now. There may, however be need for further follow up within some weeks,” he stated.

The president has asked Vice-President, Yemi Osinbajo, to continue as acting president while he continues to rest and undergo further medical tests in Britain within weeks.

“I deliberately came back towards the weekend, so that the Vice President will continue and I will continue to rest. All I will need is to do further follow ups within some weeks.”

In his remarks, Osinbajo said it was satisfying for Nigerians and the Federal Executive Council to receive the President back in the country ‘‘hail and hearty’’.

”It is a day of joy not only for us but for the whole country, Africa and the world. Your arrival has vindicated our position that you will return safely,” he said.

He thanked the President for respecting the constitution and entrusting power to him before travelling, noting that it was a tough job “going around in borrowed robes”.

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