The day of Bola Tinubu's inauguration as Nigeria's 16th democratically elected president, Monday, May 29, has been designated a national holiday by the government of Nigeria. After being sworn in on May 29, Tinubu will succeed current President Muhammadu Buhari.

Bola Tinubu to be sworn-in as Nigeria's President on May 29

A new bill that would impose five years of mandatory service on Nigeria’s medical graduates is being opposed by the doctors&nbsp;union and civil society. The bill, which is aimed to stop the migration of doctors to the UK and the US, passed its second reading in the lower house of the Nigerian parliament last month. The bill is likely to be put to a public hearing in the next couple of days.&nbsp;

<h2>Brain-drain among Nigeria’s professionals</h2>

The Nigerian government, which is set to recoup the investment in&nbsp;the country’s educational system, is working to solve&nbsp;the issue of brain drain among Nigeria’s medical professionals.&nbsp;

Ganiyu Johnson, a lawmaker and leading advocate for the bill, in his address to the medical students and doctors said that “the government has invested so much money in training these medical doctors. If the government subsidised your tuition, the least we expect is that you can give back to society within the period of five years.”

<h2>Backlash by the medical community</h2>

The bill is deemed as being “obnoxious and outlandish” by the doctors&nbsp;union and civil society alike. Commenting on the matter, Dr Innocent Orji, President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, said that “We are going to resist the bill. The bill should be withdrawn immediately. It is a waste of taxpayers’ money.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-us-imposes-visa-restrictions-on-nigerians-for-undermining-democratic-process-592979">The US imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians for undermining democratic process</a>

<h2>Problems faced by the medical community</h2>

Despite the government promising to review pay every five years, strikes in the country’s health sector have become more frequent and prolonged in recent times.&nbsp;

From static wages to job insecurity, Chidiebere Echieh, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at the University of Calabar cited several reasons behind medical professionals leaving Nigeria and moving to the UK and the US.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Nigeria's old currency can be used longer amid cash crisis

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Echieh further added that despite graduating from medical school in 2007 and pursuing further training, his salary remains stagnant. As a senior surgeon with experience and skill, he is paid a salary of around £800 ($994) a month, which is far less than medical graduates in most developed countries.&nbsp;

He further commented that health technology in developed countries is another important factor that is contributing to medical graduates from Nigeria moving abroad. Doctors have reported a rise in trauma and depression, caused by too many avoidable deaths across Nigerian hospitals due to the unavailability of superior technology.

The World Health Organization (WHO) included Nigeria on its red list to discourage other countries from hiring from an already depleted medical workforce. The UK is the biggest recruiter of Nigerian doctors. Canada, the US and Saudi Arabia are next in line.&nbsp;

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A new bill that would impose five years of mandatory service on Nigeria’s medical graduates is being opposed by the doctors union and civil society. The bill, which is aimed to stop the migration of doctors to the UK and the US, passed its second reading in the lower house of the Nigerian parliament last month.

A new bill that would impose five years of mandatory service on Nigeria’s medical graduates is being opposed by the doctors union and civil society. The bill, which is aimed to stop the migration of doctors to the UK and the US, passed its second reading in the lower house of the Nigerian parliament last month. The bill is likely to be put to a public hearing in the next couple of days. Brain-drain among Nigeria’s professionals The Nigerian government, which is set to recoup the investment in the country’s educational system, is working to solve the issue of brain drain among Nigeria’s medical professionals. Ganiyu Johnson, a lawmaker and leading advocate for the bill, in his address to the medical students and doctors said that “the government has invested so much money in training these medical doctors. If the government subsidised your tuition, the least we expect is that you can give back to society within the period of five years.” Backlash by the medical community The bill is deemed as being “obnoxious and outlandish” by the doctors union and civil society alike. Commenting on the matter, Dr Innocent Orji, President of the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, said that “We are going to resist the bill. The bill should be withdrawn immediately. It is a waste of taxpayers’ money.” ALSO READ | The US imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians for undermining democratic process Problems faced by the medical community Despite the government promising to review pay every five years, strikes in the country’s health sector have become more frequent and prolonged in recent times. From static wages to job insecurity, Chidiebere Echieh, a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at the University of Calabar cited several reasons behind medical professionals leaving Nigeria and moving to the UK and the US. WATCH | Nigeria's old currency can be used longer amid cash crisis × Echieh further added that despite graduating from medical school in 2007 and pursuing further training, his salary remains stagnant. As a senior surgeon with experience and skill, he is paid a salary of around £800 ($994) a month, which is far less than medical graduates in most developed countries. He further commented that health technology in developed countries is another important factor that is contributing to medical graduates from Nigeria moving abroad. Doctors have reported a rise in trauma and depression, caused by too many avoidable deaths across Nigerian hospitals due to the unavailability of superior technology. The World Health Organization (WHO) included Nigeria on its red list to discourage other countries from hiring from an already depleted medical workforce. The UK is the biggest recruiter of Nigerian doctors. Canada, the US and Saudi Arabia are next in line. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Nigeria's doctors fume over five years of mandatory service

Nigeria has run into more trouble with the United States as the US imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians for undermining the democratic process during the African nation's 2023 election. The US Secretary of state has said that the country would refuse to issue visas to certain people threatening the democratic election process in Nigeria.

The US imposes visa restrictions on Nigerians for undermining democratic process

Nigerian chef, Hilda Bassey Effiong, popularly known as Hilda Buci has broken the Guinness World Record for longest cooking hours. Hilda broke the record which was previously held by Indian chef, Lata Tondon on Monday morning at 7:45 am. Tondon had made meals for 87 hours, 45 minutes and 00 seconds. However, as of the time of filing this report, Hilda has cooked for 88 hours, 19 minutes. She aims to cook for 96 hours.

Nigeria’s Hilda Baci breaks Guinness World Record for longest cooking time

An overloaded boat capsized in a river in northwest Nigeria, killing 15 children while 25 others are reported missing, according to a local official quoted by AFP. The children were travelling from Dundeji village in Sokoto State on Tuesday to collect firewood on the other side of Shagari River, Aliyu Abubakar, local administrator of Shagari district, said.

"We woke up to a tragedy yesterday morning, where a boat carrying children capsized mid-river," Abubakar told AFP.

"Fifteen bodies, 13 girls and two boys, were recovered by local rescue teams and buried in the village," said the official, who supervised the rescue operation.

In Nigeria, river accidents are a common occurrence. These incidents are often caused by overloading, poor maintenance, heavy flooding in the rainy season and disregard for regulations.&nbsp;

Divers have been trying to search for more children on the river since late on Tuesday.

"I'll only pray for the repose of those who lost their lives and may Allah give their parents the fortitude to bear the loss because whoever loses his loved one has no other choice," Mohammed Yello Abubakar, a relative of a missing child and boatman on the Shagari river, said.

Last year, in the month of April, 29 children from nearby Gidan Magana village in Sokoto drowned in the same river after their boat capsized. These children were also on their way to fetch firewood for their families.

Then in December last year, rains caused massive flooding. Seventy-six people lost their lives when their boat sank in a swollen river. This tragedy took place in southeast Anambra State.

May 2021 saw one of the country's worst river disasters. Only 20 people were rescued and more than 150 went missing when a boat transporting people to market broke apart while travelling between Kebbi and Niger states.

Nigeria's waterways authority has tried to ban night-time sailing on rivers to stop accidents, and overloading vessels is a criminal offence, but skippers and crews often flout the rules.

River transport and market trade are common in Nigeria, where roads are often in poor condition. The Niger, West Africa's main river flowing through Guinea to Nigeria's Niger Delta, is a key local trade route.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An overloaded boat capsized in a river in northwest Nigeria, killing 15 children while 25 others are reported missing, according to a local official quoted by AFP.

An overloaded boat capsized in a river in northwest Nigeria, killing 15 children while 25 others are reported missing, according to a local official quoted by AFP. The children were travelling from Dundeji village in Sokoto State on Tuesday to collect firewood on the other side of Shagari River, Aliyu Abubakar, local administrator of Shagari district, said. "We woke up to a tragedy yesterday morning, where a boat carrying children capsized mid-river," Abubakar told AFP. "Fifteen bodies, 13 girls and two boys, were recovered by local rescue teams and buried in the village," said the official, who supervised the rescue operation. In Nigeria, river accidents are a common occurrence. These incidents are often caused by overloading, poor maintenance, heavy flooding in the rainy season and disregard for regulations. Divers have been trying to search for more children on the river since late on Tuesday. "I'll only pray for the repose of those who lost their lives and may Allah give their parents the fortitude to bear the loss because whoever loses his loved one has no other choice," Mohammed Yello Abubakar, a relative of a missing child and boatman on the Shagari river, said. Last year, in the month of April, 29 children from nearby Gidan Magana village in Sokoto drowned in the same river after their boat capsized. These children were also on their way to fetch firewood for their families. Then in December last year, rains caused massive flooding. Seventy-six people lost their lives when their boat sank in a swollen river. This tragedy took place in southeast Anambra State. May 2021 saw one of the country's worst river disasters. Only 20 people were rescued and more than 150 went missing when a boat transporting people to market broke apart while travelling between Kebbi and Niger states. Nigeria's waterways authority has tried to ban night-time sailing on rivers to stop accidents, and overloading vessels is a criminal offence, but skippers and crews often flout the rules. River transport and market trade are common in Nigeria, where roads are often in poor condition. The Niger, West Africa's main river flowing through Guinea to Nigeria's Niger Delta, is a key local trade route. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Nigeria: 15 children drown as boat capsizes, 25 others missing

Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers.

Armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have been abducting people from villages, schools and highways mostly in the northwest of the country, where government security is thin.

Reverend Joseph John Hayan, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna state, said the attack took place on Sunday when gunmen attacked worshippers during a service at Bege Baptist Church, in Madala village, in Chikun local government area.

Chikun is among two districts in Kaduna where ransom-seeking armed gangs are most active.

Hayan, however, said 15 of those kidnapped escaped from their captors on Sunday night.

"We have not heard any contact for ransom or anything from them (gunmen) concerning the remaining people and we pray that the abductors would be merciful to release the remaining 25 back to their families," Hayan said.

A Kaduna police spokesperson did not respond to calls and messages to their mobile phone. 
 
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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers.

Gunmen abducted 40 people from a church in a remote village in northern Nigeria, a local Christian group said on Monday, in the latest attack against worshippers. Armed gangs, known locally as bandits, have been abducting people from villages, schools and highways mostly in the northwest of the country, where government security is thin. Reverend Joseph John Hayan, chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Kaduna state, said the attack took place on Sunday when gunmen attacked worshippers during a service at Bege Baptist Church, in Madala village, in Chikun local government area. Chikun is among two districts in Kaduna where ransom-seeking armed gangs are most active. Hayan, however, said 15 of those kidnapped escaped from their captors on Sunday night. "We have not heard any contact for ransom or anything from them (gunmen) concerning the remaining people and we pray that the abductors would be merciful to release the remaining 25 back to their families," Hayan said. A Kaduna police spokesperson did not respond to calls and messages to their mobile phone. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Gunmen in Nigeria kidnap 40 worshippers from church

As real estate business booms in Nigeria, recurring instances of building collapse are a cause for worry.

Nigeria collapsing buildings menace

Nigeria's Bolaji Fatai builds a remote-controlled aircraft from waste and yes, it flies!

Recyling touches new heights | World Of Africa

Leaders of the Yoruba language in Nigeria urge stakeholders to rise up as language and culture declines due to western influence.

Western influence erodes language

'Keke' is a commercially driven tricycle or rickshaw in Nigeria. It is the most popular mode of transport in the cities, and now it has a new addition to its drivers catalogue, women. Our correspondent Louisa Olaniyi spoke to one female driver who is taking on the herculean task of challenging the male folk.

Women drivers rule the 'Keke' | World Of Africa

Extremist rebels unleashed violence on locals in simultaneous attacks across three countries - Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The toll from these attacks is close to 100, and authorities in these three nations are struggling to control the dangerous and hostile force.

Terrorists unleash violence in three nations | World of Africa

Nollywood, is big business in Africa. They are the creators of Nigerian movies, whose popularity and fame have spread fast across the continent. Online streaming platforms Netflix and UNESCO are now seeking a breakthrough for African cinema. Our correspondent Louisa Olaniyi reports.

Redefining Nigeria's Nollywood | World of Africa

In Nigeria's Benue state, 74 people have been killed in two separate attacks by gunmen this week. As per Reuters, the clashes happened in an area where violence between pastoralists and farmers is common. The news agency reports that Benue State police spokesperson Catherine Anene said that between Friday evening and Saturday morning, 28 bodies were recovered from a camp for internally displaced people in the Mgban local government area. The motive behind the attack is still unknown.

Citing witnesses Reuters&nbsp;reports that&nbsp;gunmen arrived and started shooting and killing people.

On Wednesday, in a separate incident in Benue's Umogidi village of Otukpo local government area, suspected herdsmen killed villagers at a funeral. As per Paul Hemba,&nbsp;security adviser to the Benue state governor, 46 bodies were recovered after the attack, however, the number of those killed could be higher.

Speaking to AFP, Hemba said that "the 46 casualties were from the bodies of victims found and retrieved. Many people are still missing, so the number of those killed may be higher."&nbsp;

Baba Usman Ngelzarma, chairman of the Myetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), a union of Fulani herders, has, however, warned against blaming herders without investigation and has called for an investigation to find the real perpetrators.

"There is a deliberate campaign of demonisation of Fulani herders which started in Benue and spread to other parts of Nigeria," he said adding that they are "not exonerating Fulani herders from involvement in some of the attacks but the way they are always blamed for every attack is unfair and prejudiced."

Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, in a statement on Saturday, condemned "the recent bout of killings in Benue State in which tens of people were killed in Umogidi community." He also directed the nation's security forces to increase surveillance in affected areas.

In yet another incident on Saturday, in Zamfara State, gunmen abducted at least 80 people. Zamfara is reportedly a hot spot for kidnappings, where armed gangs target remote villages for ransom.

AFP reports&nbsp;that the Middle Belt region of Nigeria is a place of turmoil, where the struggles between farmers and herders often overlap over ethnic and religious divisions, making it difficult to control land use.

In Nigeria's Benue state, 74 people have been killed in two separate attacks by gunmen this week. As per Reuters, the clashes happened in an area where violence between pastoralists and farmers is common.

In Nigeria's Benue state, 74 people have been killed in two separate attacks by gunmen this week. As per Reuters, the clashes happened in an area where violence between pastoralists and farmers is common. The news agency reports that Benue State police spokesperson Catherine Anene said that between Friday evening and Saturday morning, 28 bodies were recovered from a camp for internally displaced people in the Mgban local government area. The motive behind the attack is still unknown. Citing witnesses Reuters reports that gunmen arrived and started shooting and killing people. On Wednesday, in a separate incident in Benue's Umogidi village of Otukpo local government area, suspected herdsmen killed villagers at a funeral. As per Paul Hemba, security adviser to the Benue state governor, 46 bodies were recovered after the attack, however, the number of those killed could be higher. Speaking to AFP, Hemba said that "the 46 casualties were from the bodies of victims found and retrieved. Many people are still missing, so the number of those killed may be higher." Baba Usman Ngelzarma, chairman of the Myetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), a union of Fulani herders, has, however, warned against blaming herders without investigation and has called for an investigation to find the real perpetrators. "There is a deliberate campaign of demonisation of Fulani herders which started in Benue and spread to other parts of Nigeria," he said adding that they are "not exonerating Fulani herders from involvement in some of the attacks but the way they are always blamed for every attack is unfair and prejudiced." Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, in a statement on Saturday, condemned "the recent bout of killings in Benue State in which tens of people were killed in Umogidi community." He also directed the nation's security forces to increase surveillance in affected areas. In yet another incident on Saturday, in Zamfara State, gunmen abducted at least 80 people. Zamfara is reportedly a hot spot for kidnappings, where armed gangs target remote villages for ransom. AFP reports that the Middle Belt region of Nigeria is a place of turmoil, where the struggles between farmers and herders often overlap over ethnic and religious divisions, making it difficult to control land use.

In Nigeria's Benue state, armed gangs kill 74 in two separate shootings; President Buhari condemns attacks

The miniature art fair in Lagos, Nigeria's largest exhibition of portable works, is reaffirming its long-term commitment to making art accessible to everyone. Our correspondent Louisa Olaniyi spoke to some of the artists who will be showcasing their paintings or artwork at the fair.

Lagos miniature arts show | Nigeria's booming art market | World of Africa

Ghana is battling its worst economic crisis in a generation, amid a currency crisis that has worsened the nation’s fiscal position. The Ghanaian currency, Cedi, became the worst-performing currency in the world after it lost 45.1 percent of its value to the dollar in 2022. And in Nigeria, the central bank has extended the timeline to swap out its old currency for re-designed notes after the change triggered a cash shortage, forcing businesses to close and leaving millions unable to withdraw their money. What's causing this tumble and what really happens to the old, dilapidated currency notes?

Nigeria & Ghana face currency crisis | Crisis over old currency swap | World of Africa

India's Ministry of Home Affairs has released a list of 117 apps that it seeks to get banned in the country. The list includes dating, gaming and illegal loan-providing apps linked to China, the Philippines and Nigeria. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: India wants 117 apps banned | Apps linked to China, Philippines & Nigeria

Africa, Tunisia, Senegal, South Africa, Nigeria and Kenya are seeing widespread protests over mismanaging governments. Is this wave of discontent similar to the 2010 #ArabSpring? Watch #WIONWideangle

WION Wideangle | Africa protests: Another Arab spring?

Nigerian inflation quickened at its fastest pace in almost 18 years, placing pressure on the central bank to extend its longest cycle of monetary tightening in more than a decade... According to data published on the national bureau of statistics' website, the inflation rate rose to 21.9% in February from 21.8% a month earlier. What's causing the surge? WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi reports.

Inflation in Nigeria nears 18-year high

The Central Bank of Nigeria announced late Monday that the old notes of 200 naira (43 U.S. cents), 500 naira ($1.08) and 1,000 naira ($2.16) will remain legal tender until Dec. 31.

Nigeria's old currency can be used longer amid cash crisis

It was a hotly contested poll pitting three main challengers to replace President Buhari. In the end the Godfather of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu emerged victorious as the president-elect. But some feel Peter Obi would have been a better leader because he was considered young. So what happened to the millions of young voters who registered en-masse with the hope of bringing change to Nigeria? Erik Njoka decodes in this report.

World Of Africa | Nigerian youth feel disenfranchised?

The PDP's Atiku Abubakar and Labour's Peter Obi are the main opposition presidential candidates in the elections held on Saturday. Opposition parties in Nigeria have called for the presidential election to be scrapped, describing it as a sham.

NIGERIA ELECTIONS: What we know so far

Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint.&nbsp;He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's help, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019.&nbsp;And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007, as per a Reuters report.&nbsp;

Tinubu’s power will now be put to the test as he works to address Nigeria's challenges and surpass Buhari's poor track record.

<h2>Bola Tinubu:&nbsp;Early life&nbsp;</h2>

Tinubu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1952, to a Muslim family of the Yoruba ethnic group, which makes up the majority in southwest Nigeria, according to a biography on his <a href="https://batcampaign2023.site/">campaign website</a>.

He immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and supported his academic pursuits by working as a night guard, dishwasher, and taxi driver. He earned his business administration degree from Chicago State University in 1979, as per a Reuters report.

When he returned to Nigeria in the 1980s after working for US consulting firms, he took a job as an auditor with a branch of the Mobil oil company.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigeria-elections-bola-tinubu-declared-president-elect-567000">Nigeria elections: Ruling party's Bola Tinubu declaared president-elect in spite of oppn uproar</a>

<h2>What is Nigeria going through?</h2>

Nigeria's economy is barely keeping up with population growth amid &nbsp;inflation and crippling cash shortages as a result of a botched launch of new banknotes, as armed groups have made large portions of the nation ungovernable.

As Tinubu ran for president under Buhari, many of these issues grew worse. While he helped shape the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party, when asked at a weekend press briefing why people should elect him, he said, “My track record should speak for me. Look at Lagos: Before I came, we had dead bodies on the road, a chaotic traffic system, and robbery daytime, and nighttime.”

“Come on: clap for me,” he added in an appearance typical of the hubris that often marks leaders of Africa’s top oil producer and most populous country, reports&nbsp;Reuters.&nbsp;

<h2>What do Tinubu's supporters view him as?</h2>

Supporters of Tinubu view him as a capable technocrat who has a history of being a successful administrator.

He co-founded and provided funding for the Alliance for Democracy, which later changed its name to the Action Congress of Nigeria, and then assisted in the formation of the APC. His supporters describe&nbsp;him as a shrewd political strategist.

He played a key role in uniting the All Progressives Congress (APC) divisions, enabling Buhari to win in 2015 and overthrow the opposition People's Democratic Party&nbsp;(PDP) after 16 years in office.

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Tinubu's political clout was largely responsible for Buhari's election, the first triumph for the opposition in the nation, and his re-election in 2019.

Opponents claim he rewards loyalists with lucrative contracts and high-paying jobs and has in the past used so-called "area boys," who formally run Lagos' streets and frequently show up at his rallies, to threaten opponents if he doesn't get his way.

The 70-year-old tends to disregard such accusations rather than respond to them. In spite of persistent attempts to respond, Tinubu's campaign spokesperson remained silent.&nbsp;

<h2>Corruption charges&nbsp;</h2>

Concerns have been raised about Tinubu's financial transactions while in office.

He is regarded&nbsp;as one of Nigeria's wealthiest politicians, and when he left the government, he was charged with money laundering, corruption, and running more than a dozen overseas bank accounts. He says he did nothing illegal and was never prosecuted, says&nbsp;a report&nbsp;by Aljazeera.&nbsp;

He was described as "wobbly, wonky, and narcotic-devastated" by PDP opponents on the campaign trail in reference to his health issues and a 1993 US court document that detailed a "drug-related confiscation of property" from his US bank account.

He has stakes in a variety of businesses, including media, aviation, tax consulting, hotels, and real estate holdings, although it is unknown where his fortune comes from.

A critic called him "a greedy politician" who had exhausted&nbsp;significant sources of income in Lagos, as per Al Jazeera.

<h2>A tight race in Nigeria</h2>

For the first time since Nigeria's military coup ended in 1999, the election was tight when Obi, 61, attracted younger voters with his message of change.

In Lagos, Tinubu's traditional stronghold and the state with the most registered voters, he achieved a significant win, as reported by AFP.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nigerian-opposition-parties-protest-election-results-566845">Nigerian opposition parties protest election results</a>

The 76-year-old businessman and former vice president Abubakar failed in his sixth bid for the presidency.

The vote on Saturday was largely calm but was marred by protracted wait times at some polling places and some claims of intimidation.

Concerns of vote tampering increased when technical difficulties prevented the results from being uploaded to INEC's main website.

"The election is irretrievably compromised," Labour Party chairman Julius Abure told AFP&nbsp;on Tuesday. "We demand that this sham of an election should be immediately cancelled," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons.

Bola Tinubu, the president-elect of Nigeria, has largely operated from behind the scenes during his political stint. He is considered a "godfather" who supports political candidates via his extensive network of patrons. With Tinubu's help, former president Muhammadu Buhari was successful in obtaining two terms in office, in 2015 and 2019. And Tinubu has chosen each succeeding victor to lead the greatest city in Africa since he stepped down as governor of Lagos in 2007, as per a Reuters report. Tinubu’s power will now be put to the test as he works to address Nigeria's challenges and surpass Buhari's poor track record. Bola Tinubu: Early life Tinubu was born in Lagos, Nigeria, in 1952, to a Muslim family of the Yoruba ethnic group, which makes up the majority in southwest Nigeria, according to a biography on his campaign website. He immigrated to the United States in the 1970s and supported his academic pursuits by working as a night guard, dishwasher, and taxi driver. He earned his business administration degree from Chicago State University in 1979, as per a Reuters report. When he returned to Nigeria in the 1980s after working for US consulting firms, he took a job as an auditor with a branch of the Mobil oil company. ALSO READ | Nigeria elections: Ruling party's Bola Tinubu declaared president-elect in spite of oppn uproar What is Nigeria going through? Nigeria's economy is barely keeping up with population growth amid inflation and crippling cash shortages as a result of a botched launch of new banknotes, as armed groups have made large portions of the nation ungovernable. As Tinubu ran for president under Buhari, many of these issues grew worse. While he helped shape the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party, when asked at a weekend press briefing why people should elect him, he said, “My track record should speak for me. Look at Lagos: Before I came, we had dead bodies on the road, a chaotic traffic system, and robbery daytime, and nighttime.” “Come on: clap for me,” he added in an appearance typical of the hubris that often marks leaders of Africa’s top oil producer and most populous country, reports Reuters. What do Tinubu's supporters view him as? Supporters of Tinubu view him as a capable technocrat who has a history of being a successful administrator. He co-founded and provided funding for the Alliance for Democracy, which later changed its name to the Action Congress of Nigeria, and then assisted in the formation of the APC. His supporters describe him as a shrewd political strategist. He played a key role in uniting the All Progressives Congress (APC) divisions, enabling Buhari to win in 2015 and overthrow the opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP) after 16 years in office. Tinubu's political clout was largely responsible for Buhari's election, the first triumph for the opposition in the nation, and his re-election in 2019. Opponents claim he rewards loyalists with lucrative contracts and high-paying jobs and has in the past used so-called "area boys," who formally run Lagos' streets and frequently show up at his rallies, to threaten opponents if he doesn't get his way. The 70-year-old tends to disregard such accusations rather than respond to them. In spite of persistent attempts to respond, Tinubu's campaign spokesperson remained silent. Corruption charges Concerns have been raised about Tinubu's financial transactions while in office. He is regarded as one of Nigeria's wealthiest politicians, and when he left the government, he was charged with money laundering, corruption, and running more than a dozen overseas bank accounts. He says he did nothing illegal and was never prosecuted, says a report by Aljazeera. He was described as "wobbly, wonky, and narcotic-devastated" by PDP opponents on the campaign trail in reference to his health issues and a 1993 US court document that detailed a "drug-related confiscation of property" from his US bank account. He has stakes in a variety of businesses, including media, aviation, tax consulting, hotels, and real estate holdings, although it is unknown where his fortune comes from. A critic called him "a greedy politician" who had exhausted significant sources of income in Lagos, as per Al Jazeera. A tight race in Nigeria For the first time since Nigeria's military coup ended in 1999, the election was tight when Obi, 61, attracted younger voters with his message of change. In Lagos, Tinubu's traditional stronghold and the state with the most registered voters, he achieved a significant win, as reported by AFP. ALSO READ | Nigerian opposition parties protest election results The 76-year-old businessman and former vice president Abubakar failed in his sixth bid for the presidency. The vote on Saturday was largely calm but was marred by protracted wait times at some polling places and some claims of intimidation. Concerns of vote tampering increased when technical difficulties prevented the results from being uploaded to INEC's main website. "The election is irretrievably compromised," Labour Party chairman Julius Abure told AFP on Tuesday. "We demand that this sham of an election should be immediately cancelled," he added. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

EXPLAINED | Everything about Bola Tinubu, Nigeria's president-elect

Ruling party candidate Bola Tinubu has been declared the winner of Nigeria's disputed presidential election. The 70-year-old veteran politician got 36% of the vote, official results show.

Bola Tinubu wins Presidential elections of Nigeria

Nigeria announced initial results on Sunday after a tight election for the presidency of Africa’s most populous nation, marked by widespread voting delays and early accusations of attempts to manipulate ballot counts. Nearly 90 million were eligible to vote on Saturday for a successor to President Muhammadu Buhari, with many hoping a new leader would do a better job tackling insecurity, economic malaise and growing poverty.

Nigeria presidential polls: Delay in results sparks malpractice worries

It was tipped to be the biggest election this year in the continent. For almost a year various aspirants traversed the vast nation to woo Nigerians to vote for them as president, vice-president, senator and representative. The turn out, as expected, was high and the world watched with anticipation as Africa's largest democracy went to the ballot. WION correspondent Louisa Olaniyi recaps the nation’s most hotly contested polls.

World of Africa: Decoding Nigeria's Presidential Election

Nigeria's poll panel has started announcing state-by-state results from the presidential election. A historically tight poll has energised Africa's most populous nation. There have been reports of violence and intimidation, though not on the scale of previous elections. Votes for the presidency are being tallied by hand, and results are being uploaded online to the election commission's central database. According to initial tallies on Monday, Nigeria's ruling party candidate, Bola Tinubu has taken an early lead in the race for the presidency.

Ruling party candidate ahead in Nigeria election, opposition parties reject vote | Key details

Nigeria's two main opposition parties on Tuesday called for the cancellation of the weekend presidential elections, alleging manipulation of results, and demanded a new ballot. WION's Louisa Olaniyi brings you more insights.

Nigeria Presidential Elections 2023: Opposition parties call for cancellation of 'sham' elections

Nigeria Elections 2023: Opposition parties allege fraud

Nigeria Presidential Elections 2023: Ruling party candidate takes early lead

Nigeria began to announce early results on Sunday after a tight election for the presidency of Africa's most populous nation, as concerns grew over long delays in voting and accusations of attempts to manipulate tallies.

Nigeria began to announce early results on Sunday after a tight election for the presidency of Africa's most populous nation, as concerns grew over long delays in voting and accusations of attempts to manipulate tallies. The election went ahead mostly peacefully, despite some ransacked polling stations and late starts at many others. Voters stayed up late at night in many locations to observe the count and "protect" the ballots. Nearly 90 million were eligible to vote on Saturday for a successor to President Muhammadu Buhari, with many Nigerians hoping a new leader will do a better job tackling insecurity, economic malaise and growing poverty. Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman Mahmood Yakubu told reporters results would be officially announced state by state from Sunday when tallies are collated. But slow uploading of results to INEC's online website provoked worries of electoral malpractice in a country with a history of ballot rigging and vote buying. "Let Nigeria decide O! @inecigeria," Nigerian Afrobeats star and Grammy Awards winner Burna Boy wrote on Twitter. "No try any result magic." The election pits former Lagos governor Bola Tinubu, 70, of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against former vice president Atiku Abubakar, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), 76. But for the first time since the end of military rule in 1999, a surprise third-party candidate, Labour Party's Peter Obi, has challenged the APC and PDP dominance with a message of change. PDP's candidate Abubakar urged INEC to upload the results immediately after accusing some state governors of trying to compromise the results. "It will be a disservice to Nigerians and a negation to democracy for anyone to subvert the will of the people as freely expressed in their votes of yesterday," he said in a statement. When he was defeated by Buhari in the 2019 election, Abubakar claimed massive fraud. The Supreme Court eventually tossed out his challenge. Labour Party chairman Julius Abure also accused election officials of failing to upload results from parts of Lagos and southern Delta State to help ruling APC's candidate. Observers group Yiaga Africa said it was "deeply concerned with the delay" in results. But INEC said problems with uploading results on its IReV data page were due "technical hitches" and there was no risk of tampering. "The commission wishes to assure Nigerians that the challenges are not due to any intrusion or sabotage of our systems," it said in a statement. "It is important to avoid statements and actions that can heat up the polity at this time." - 'Race is open' - In Lagos and other cities, crowds stormed polling stations late on Saturday as electoral officials tallied the first results by hand and read out the counts before transmitting them to the central database. On Sunday morning, people gathered at a newspaper stand in the Falomo area of Lagos, eager for results to come in and expressing hope this election would bring change. "Last time, we knew Buhari was going to be re-elected, there was no excitement, but this time is so different, the race is open and there is hope," said mechanic Orubibi Dighobo. Some polling stations were still voting early on Sunday after long delays getting started. The commission has 14 days to officially announce results, but the online tally should be made available over the next few days. To win the presidency, a candidate must get the most votes but also win at least 25 percent of votes cast in two-thirds of Nigeria's 36 states. Some states are must wins. Lagos has the most registered voters at more than 7 million, followed by two states in the country's mostly Muslim north, Kano and Kaduna states. The competitive race has some analysts forecasting an unprecedented runoff between the two frontrunners if no candidate meets election requirements. It would have to be organised within 21 days. - Old guard rivals - The success of Nigeria's vote will be closely watched in West Africa, where coups in Mali and Burkina Faso and growing Islamist militancy have taken democracy in the region back a step. Buhari, a former army general, will step down after two terms in office. His critics say he failed in his key promises to make Nigeria safer. Fuel and cash shortages at banks caused by a naira currency bill exchange programme in the run-up to the election also left many Nigerians struggling more than usual. Whoever wins the election must quickly get to grips with Africa's largest economy and top oil producer, beset by problems from a grinding jihadist war in the northeast to double digit inflation. APC's candidate Tinubu, a long-time political kingmaker and southern ethnic Yoruba Muslim, says "It's my turn" for the presidency. He says his experience as Lagos governor will count. He faces a familiar rival -- PDP candidate Abubakar, a Muslim from the northeast who is on his sixth bid for the top job and touts his business experience to fix the economy. But both are old guard figures who have fought off past corruption accusations, and the emergence of Obi, a Christian ethnic Igbo from the southeast, threw the race open. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nigeria awaits results after tight election

Nigeria's electoral commission has started announcing state by state results from national elections on Sunday. The first results from Ekiti state showed a majority of votes for President cast in favour of Bola Tinubu of the governing All Progressives Congress.

Nigeria Presidential Elections 2023: Electoral Commission announces state-wide results

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