President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration is determined to defeat terrorists and bandits, and secure the release of all persons held captive across the country.
Tinubu gave the assurance yesterday during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The president, whose message was delivered by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, also assured citizens of efforts to ease the economic burden on the country.
He emphasised that the safety of Nigerians was a top priority of the federal government, describing recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.
He also explained that the safe return of all persons in captivity was a national priority, stating that security agencies and relevant institutions are being supported with the necessary resources to protect lives, secure communities, and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Tinubu declared.
The SGF affirmed the president’s unwavering commitment to his constitutional responsibilities, saying he is ready to “double his efforts” to ensure that the socio-economic difficulties currently confronting Nigerians are substantially reduced through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
Acknowledging the hardship facing many households, Akume said the government was fully aware of the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting several communities across the country.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that Tinubu is leading efforts to address the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
He congratulated Nigerians on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic rule since 1999 and described the milestone as a testament to the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.
He also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, saying many endured persecution, injury, and even death in the quest to secure democratic governance for the country.
With the 2027 general election inching closer, the SGF appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used as tools of thuggery, political violence, misinformation campaigns, ethnic abuse or religious intolerance.
He urged Nigerians to eschew violence, hate campaigns, and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy must never be reduced to a battleground.
“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,” Akume said.
He also tasked religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and responsible conduct as the country moved towards another election cycle.
Akume reiterated the country’s commitment to democratic ethos, interfaith harmony and peaceful coexistence with the international community, insisting that despite prevailing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.
He applauded members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the country and sustaining democratic rule.
The SGF urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of June 12 heroes by working towards a nation where elections were peaceful, leaders accountable, communities secure, and every citizen could live with dignity.
The Democracy Day Service, which had the theme, “God of hope, actualise our dreams,” was attended by dignitaries from all walks of life, including Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs, Didi Walson-Jack.
