Obama, 44th president of America

Barack Hussein Obama is now officially the 44th president of the United States of America.



In a ceremony attended by approximately two million people in Washington, Obama in his address a short while ago, called on all Americans to be prepared to brave the challenges ahead for the country.



After a formal farewell to President George W. Bush and lunch with congressional leaders, Obama will head up Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House, where he and his family will watch the inauguration parade.



The new president and first lady will then close the night by attending 10 official inaugural balls.



Officials have estimated that as many as 2 million people could turn up for the balls.