This election and the maturity that played out between the two camps has effectively put paid to prediction that Nigeria might disintegrate this year. Against apprehensions, this general election has turned out to be a rebirth of our destiny as against the fear of our apocalypse.

It will be recalled that in its infamous 17-page discussion paper entitled: "Mapping Sub-Saharan Africa's Future", a United State Security Think Tank, the National Intelligence Council (NIC) had in 2009 predicted that country might disintegrate.

But in the face of daunting challenges, Nigeria has proudly proven it's worth to the world as a nation of prized values. Yet again, we have proven to be a beacon of hope for the African continent. It is heartwarming that Nigeria has gained a renewed global respect for conducting its most credible elections in history.

Kudos must therefore be given to all those that ensured that the doomsday prophecy did not come to pass on Nigeria. Of particular reference is both President Goodluck Jonathan and President-elect Gen. Muhammadu Buhari for showing their maturity and sportsmanship before, during and after the elections. Their legacies will remain indelible in the annals of Nigeria's political history.

However, while bashing in the euphoria of the peaceful conduct of the Presidential and National Assembly elections, Nigerians must bear in their minds that the second phase of the election is as much important as the first. We should all therefore continue to ensure the sustenance of the peace and harmony that currently pervades the length and breathe of the country.

In this regard, INEC must ensure that all administrative lapses identified in the last election are corrected. The security agencies are also advised to continue to be non-partisan and professional in carrying out their duties.

Nigerians must also note importantly that the change that we all yearn for starts with us. All Nigerians, and not President Buhari or the All Progressives Congress (APC) alone must key into the change spirit by being better ambassadors of the country wherever we find ourselves.

Once again, Sen. Gbemi Saraki congratulates Nigerians on this historic milestone. It is her hope and prayer that this giant leap will mark a New Dawn for the country and it's generations unborn!