President Bola Tinubu’s government has assured Nigerians that his administration will not bow to terrorism, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation, while reaffirming its commitment to easing the economic challenges facing citizens.
The President’s message was delivered on Sunday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
According to a statement by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the event, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” was attended by several top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.
In the address, Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the achievement as a reflection of the resilience and sacrifices of those who fought for the return of democracy.
He paid tribute to heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries, and even death in pursuit of democratic rule.
Acknowledging the economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting many communities, Akume said the government was aware of the challenges and remained committed to addressing them.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he stated.
On security, Tinubu described recent attacks and abductions as a reminder of the work still ahead but assured Nigerians that the safe return of those held captive remains a priority. He added that security agencies were being provided with the resources needed to safeguard lives, protect communities, and defend the nation’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” the President declared.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to intensify, the SGF urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech, and divisive politics, stressing that democracy should not be turned into a battleground.
He also advised young people not to allow themselves to be used for political violence, thuggery, misinformation campaigns, ethnic hostility, or religious intolerance.
“Do not rent out your conscience for money, drugs, political patronage or online applause. Your future is worth more than any politician’s temporary convenience,” he said.
Tinubu further called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the media, and families to promote peace, tolerance, and national unity as the country approaches another election cycle. He also commended members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their role in defending democracy and maintaining security across the nation.