– Security tight –
Heads of state, including South Africa’s Jacob Zuma, and Western dignitaries such as US Secretary of State John Kerry, are to attend Friday’s inauguration, which starts at 9:00 am (0800 GMT).
Roads have been closed around the Eagle Square inauguration venue, where dozens of international flags have been hoisted alongside the Nigerian green and white triband and soldiers patrolled.
The venue was surrounded by barbed wire and giant posters of Buhari had been hung, alongside vice-president-elect Osinbajo, as workers rolled out red carpets and arranged flowers.
Nigeria’s federal police chief Solomon Arase said the security measures were imposed “to ward off possible plans by insurgents to carry out widespread violence and coordinated attacks”.
Boko Haram has hit Abuja before while in 2010, 10 were killed during bomb attacks claimed by militants from the oil-producing southern Delta near ceremonies to mark 50 years of independence.
On the streets, traders were gearing up for Friday’s event, selling watches, badges, hats and green and white polo shirts emblazoned with his campaign slogan “Sai Buhari” (Only Buhari).
“I voted for him. He is my candidate because he is going to help the masses. He is a very great man,” said Zuberu Yakubu, a state-sector driver.
“I believe Buhari can make my life greater,” said the 42-year-old father of five, who admitted he didn’t have the 800 naira ($4, 3.65 euros) to buy a t-shirt.
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