Bola Tinubu, aged 71, emerged as the winner of the February election by offering a vision of restored optimism. However, he is now confronted with formidable economic and security obstacles.

Assuming the presidency from the two-term incumbent, Muhammadu Buhari, Tinubu steps into a situation marked by soaring inflation, historic levels of debt, and a rise in incidents of kidnapping for ransom.

The legitimacy of Tinubu’s victory is currently being disputed in court by his two main competitors.

Critics argue that the election outcome was manipulated. Still, the departing president, who chose not to participate after serving two terms, expressed confidence in the credibility of the results, asserting that the voting process was fair and transparent.

Distinguished guests from various parts of the continent have gathered in the capital city, Abuja, for the inauguration ceremony, highlighting its importance.

However, Bola Tinubu might not have much time to revel as Nigerians anticipate swift action from their new leader. The country is grappling with soaring inflation, reaching its highest level in almost 18 years, a staggering unemployment rate of one in three individuals, and a decline in the crucial oil industry’s output.

It is imperative for Tinubu to swiftly win over those who did not vote for him, convincing them that he is capable of addressing these pressing challenges. Given his background as a trained accountant and his successful tenure as a two-term governor of Lagos, where he revitalized the commercial hub, he is likely unfazed by the daunting task and well-informed about the complexities involved.

According to his supporters, Bola Tinubu intends to apply the same technocratic and thoughtful approach he employed in governing Lagos as he assumes leadership over Nigeria, a vast nation with a population exceeding 200 million.

However, critics of the new president argue that he has lost the vigor he once displayed in driving the modernization of Lagos.

Following the election, Tinubu has made two trips abroad, leading to concerns about his health. In 2021, he underwent an undisclosed medical treatment in London, spending several months there.

Despite facing criticism, Tinubu has dismissed these concerns by stating that the job demands do not require an Olympic athlete’s fitness. His associates quickly point out that 80-year-old US President Joe Biden is a reminder that age should not be a determining factor.

Nevertheless, suppose the candidates who secured second and third place in the presidential election, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, have their way. In that case, Bola Tinubu’s tenure in power may be short-lived.