President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to ease the economic hardship confronting citizens while maintaining a firm stance against insecurity, declaring that the Federal Government will neither surrender to terrorists nor bandits. The President also pledged that all persons held captive across the country would remain a priority for rescue efforts.
Assurances Delivered at Democracy Day Church Service
The assurances were conveyed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on Sunday at the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration. The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted dignitaries from across the country, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack.
Tribute to Democracy Heroes
Delivering President Tinubu’s message, Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as a testament to the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy. He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and other pro-democracy activists, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and even death in the quest to enthrone democratic rule in the country.
According to him, President Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional obligations and would “double his efforts” to ensure that the socio-economic difficulties facing Nigerians are substantially reduced through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends. Acknowledging the hardship confronting many households, the SGF said the administration was fully aware of the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across the country.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that the President was addressing the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
Security Remains Top Priority
On security, Akume stressed that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government, describing recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work still needs to be done. He assured Nigerians that securing the release of all persons in captivity remains a national priority, noting that security agencies and relevant institutions are being provided with the resources required to safeguard communities, protect lives and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The Government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
Call for Peace Ahead of 2027 Elections
With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gathering momentum, Akume urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy must never be turned into a battleground. He specifically appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used for thuggery, political violence, 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.
The SGF also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct as the nation moves towards another election cycle. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony and peaceful engagement with the international community, insisting that despite existing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.
Honouring Sacrifices of Security Forces
Akume commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in defending the nation and sustaining democratic rule. He urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the June 12 heroes by working towards a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and every citizen can live in dignity.
“Our democratic journey has not been without trials, but our hope remains alive. Let the sacrifices of our heroes inspire us to build a greater nation for generations yet unborn,” he said.
