President Bola Tinubu. Credit
BY FRONTLINE REPORTERS
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to defeat insecurity and secure the freedom of all persons currently held captive across the country, declaring that Nigeria will never surrender to terrorism, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation.
The President also assured Nigerians that his administration remains committed to easing the economic challenges facing citizens and delivering sustainable democratic dividends.
Tinubu made the pledge through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), 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.
Addressing the congregation, 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 glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many pro-democracy activists endured persecution, injuries, and even death in their quest to enthrone democratic rule in the country.
According to the SGF, President Tinubu remains steadfast in fulfilling his constitutional mandate and is determined to intensify efforts aimed at reducing the socio-economic difficulties confronting Nigerians.
Acknowledging the hardship faced by many households, Akume said the Federal Government is fully aware of the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting communities across the nation.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains, and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is addressing the challenges with compassion, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility.
On the security situation, Akume emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of the administration. He described recent attacks and abductions in parts of the country as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.
He assured Nigerians that the safe return of all persons in captivity remains a national priority, stressing that security agencies are receiving the necessary support and resources to safeguard communities and preserve the nation’s territorial integrity.
“The Government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
The church service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted prominent government officials and dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.
With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gaining momentum, the SGF called on Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns, and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy must never be turned into a battlefield.
He specifically urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as tools 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 cautioned.
Akume further appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media, and families to promote peace, tolerance, and responsible conduct as the nation approaches another election cycle.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony, and peaceful engagement with the international community, he maintained that despite existing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.
The SGF also commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices and dedication to protecting 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 and hope.
ADVERTISEMENTS
