President Muhammadu Buhari on Monday in Abuja administered the oath of office and oath of allegiance to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Babachir David Lawal.

The event, held at the Council Chamber, Presidential Villa, Abuja, also witnessed the swearing in of the National Security Adviser, retired Maj.-Gen. Babagana Munguno and the President’s Special Adviser (Media and Publicity), Mr Femi Adesina.

At the end of the event, the new SGF, lawal, who spoke on behalf of others, thanked President Buhari for making them part of the team that would propel the country to greatness.

``We want to thank God for granting President the vision, wisdom, kindness and boldness to consider us worthy for positions of responsibilities.

``We did not have passed any examination to get appointed into these positions. It is not because of our tribes, or our faiths, or our political groups that we were considered worthy for these positions.

``If it is such, I am sure none of us would have been considered worthy of these appointments. So, we appreciate the president and we appreciate God that He has blessed us with these privileged appointments.

``It is a privilege and honour to serve Nigeria in these capacities at this turning point in its history.

``Nigeria is at the threshold of achieving greatness and it our honour and privilege to be senior members of the team that will propel the country to this greatness.’’

While commending the president for his exemplary leadership style, Lawal pledged that they would strive at all time to serve the nation diligently.

``We have in you and the Vice President leaders that lead by examples, leaders that are focused whose goal is to build a Nigeria where this is liberty, security, economic prosperity and the rule of law.

``We are grateful that we are part of the team to deliver this goal.

``Accept our assurances that by the grace of God, we will not fail you, we will not fail our country, and we will not fail ourselves, our families and our friends.

``By the grace of God, we will not fail you either. We will strive at all times to serve our country and to serve you with excellence, hard work and integrity.’’

President Buhari appointed Adesina on the May 31, Monguno on July 31 while Lawal was appointed as SGF on Aug. 27.(NAN)