President Umaru Yar'Adua (Photo Courtesy Vanguard)

Abuja — For Nigeria, a new era began today with the swearing-in of Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as the nation's 14th head of state, following Wednesday night's demise of President Umaru Musa Yar'Adua.

The oath of office was administered on the new President by the Chief Justice of the Federation, Justice Katsina-Alu around 9 am today. In his inaugural speech, Jonathan pledged a renewed commitment to good governance, electoral reform and the fight against corruption, saying: "We must enshrine the best standards in our democratic practice".

"One of the true tests," according to him, "would be to ensure that all votes count and are counted in the upcoming general elections".

He added that the effort at ensuring the sustenance of peace and development in the Niger Delta as well as security of life and property throughout the country would be of topmost priority in the remaining period of this administration.

He therefore assured Nigerians that the pledges he had made "to improve the socio-economic situation, which we face through improved access to electricity, water, education, health facilities and other social amenities would continue to be given the needed emphasis",pointing out that "the welfare of our teeming workers and the unemployed youths would also be accorded a new impetus".

The new President urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and committed to the values and aspirations of the nation.

Paying glowing tributes to his late predecessor, Jonathan said: "President Yar'Adua's contributions to political development and good governance would never be forgotten," adding, "He will therefore always occupy a pride of place in the political history of our dear Nation".

He described the late Yar'Adua as "a man of great personal integrity, deep devotion to God and outstanding humility", saying "In all his public service, he displayed uncommon commitment to the peace, progress and unity of our country".

Pointing out that Yar'Adua left a profound legacy that provides a firm foundation for Nigeria's future, Jonathan lamented that "his exit has therefore created a huge vacuum in his personal contributions to the political growth and development of our nation; I have lost not just a boss but a good friend and brother".

While offering his "heartfelt condolences on the demise of our amiable leader", the new President pledged to stand by the late President's widow, Hajia Turai Yar'Adua, the children, his aged mother, Hajia Habiba Musa Yar Adua, and the entire Yar'Adua family.

The swearing-in ceremony was witnessed by the new First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, the Senate President, Senator David Mark, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Dimeji Bankole, members of the Executive Council of the Federation (EXCOF), the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ahmed Yayale, Service Chiefs and other top government officials.