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President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to address economic challenges and strengthen security across the country, declaring that the Federal Government will not yield to terrorists, bandits or other criminal groups.
The President gave the assurance in a message delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held in Abuja on Sunday as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted top government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries from across the country.
Among those in attendance were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Didi Walson-Jack.
Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as evidence of the resilience and commitment of citizens who fought for the restoration and sustenance of democracy.
He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many pro-democracy activists endured persecution, injuries and even death in pursuit of democratic rule.
According to the SGF, President Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional mandate and ensuring that Nigerians benefit from the dividends of democracy through sustainable socio-economic development.
He acknowledged the difficulties confronting many citizens, including economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement in some communities.
Akume said the government was fully aware of the challenges facing households across the country and was working to ease the burden on citizens.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said.
He added that the President was addressing the challenges with compassion, determination and a strong sense of responsibility.
On the security situation, Akume reiterated that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government.
He described recent attacks and abductions in parts of the country as painful reminders of the need for sustained efforts to combat insecurity.
The SGF assured Nigerians that the safe rescue of all persons currently in captivity remains a key national objective.
He said security agencies were receiving the necessary support, equipment and resources required to strengthen their operations and safeguard communities.
“The government will never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Akume declared.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to gather momentum, he urged Nigerians to reject violence, divisive rhetoric and hate-driven campaigns.
He particularly appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be used as tools for political violence, thuggery, misinformation, ethnic hostility or religious intolerance.
According to him, the future of Nigerian youths should not be sacrificed for temporary political gains or personal interests.
Akume also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, families and the media to promote peace, tolerance and responsible conduct across the country.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, national unity and interfaith harmony, stressing that the country’s democratic institutions remain strong despite prevailing challenges.
The SGF further commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in protecting the nation and preserving democratic rule.
He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the June 12 heroes by working towards a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and citizens enjoy dignity and equal opportunities.
Akume said the continued success of Nigeria’s democracy depends on the collective efforts of citizens and leaders to uphold justice, peace and national development.
