Buhari, who has served as President for the past eight years, made the comment during a pre-inauguration Gala Night on Sunday.
As he prepares to hand over the presidency to Bola Tinubu, the incoming President, Buhari expressed his desire to return to his hometown of Daura in Katsina State to focus on his farm animals.
During his speech, Buhari stated, "I am looking forward to tomorrow to fly to my base to go and meet my cattle and sheep, which are much easier to control than fellow Nigerians. But I have to reduce their number because I cannot save enough to buy them feeds."
The President's words have sparked controversy and criticism, with many Nigerians expressing their disappointment and frustration at his comparison between citizens and livestock.
Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu, 71, has been declared the winner of the 2023 presidential election by the Independent National Electoral Commission. As he prepares to assume office, Tinubu faces significant challenges in restoring hope to the nation amidst economic and security crises. Nigeria is grappling with soaring inflation, a record debt burden, and widespread insecurity, including incidents of abductions, banditry, and terrorism.
The inauguration ceremony for Tinubu is expected to be attended by about 20 world leaders, with delegations from the United States and China already present in the country. The international community will be closely observing Tinubu's leadership and the steps he takes to address the pressing issues facing Nigeria.
As President Buhari steps down and Tinubu assumes office, Nigerians are eager to see how the new administration will tackle the country's challenges. Economic stability, security, and social development are among the key areas that require immediate attention. The incoming President has a daunting task ahead, as he strives to fulfill his promises and lead Nigeria towards a brighter future.
The peaceful transition of power is a crucial moment in Nigeria's democratic process. It is an opportunity for the incoming administration to demonstrate its commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusivity. As Nigerians anticipate the inauguration of President Tinubu, they also hold high expectations for meaningful change and progress in their nation.
The international presence at the inauguration signifies the significance of Nigeria's role on the global stage. With the attendance of world leaders, there is an opportunity for diplomatic engagement and cooperation to address common challenges and foster mutual understanding. The support and collaboration of the international community will be instrumental in Nigeria's journey towards stability and development.
President Buhari's controversial statement serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership that respects and values the dignity of every citizen. Nigerians hope that the incoming administration will prioritize the welfare and aspirations of the people, working tirelessly to address their needs and build a prosperous and inclusive society.
The transition of power offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal. As Nigeria ushers in a new chapter in its history, there is a collective hope for positive change, unity, and progress. The challenges ahead are significant, but with strong leadership, effective policies, and the support of the Nigerian people, the nation can overcome obstacles and realize its true potential.
The incoming administration must prioritise good governance, accountability, and transparency to restore public trust and confidence. By implementing inclusive policies, fostering economic growth, and tackling security threats, Nigeria can pave the way for a better future for all its citizens.
As Bola Tinubu prepares to assume the highest office in the land, he faces both immense responsibilities and opportunities. The expectations of Nigerians are high, and they look to their new leader for visionary and decisive leadership. The nation awaits the actions and policies that will shape the trajectory of Nigeria's progress and the well-being of its people.