President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity across Nigeria, insisting that the Federal Government will not bow to terrorists, bandits, or any form of criminal pressure.
The President also assured Nigerians that ongoing efforts to address economic challenges and improve living conditions would be intensified in the months ahead.
Tinubu’s position was conveyed on Sunday by 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 in Abuja as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
In his message, the President congratulated Nigerians on sustaining democratic governance for 27 consecutive years since the return to civilian rule in 1999.
He described the achievement as evidence of the determination, resilience, and sacrifices of citizens who struggled to restore democracy in the country.
The President paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 democratic struggle, noting that many activists and patriots endured persecution, injuries, and even death in their quest for democratic governance and political freedom.
Akume said Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling the responsibilities entrusted to him by the Constitution and would intensify efforts to reduce the socio-economic difficulties currently confronting many Nigerians.
According to him, the administration is focused on delivering sustainable democratic dividends that will positively impact the lives of citizens across the country.
Addressing the prevailing economic and security concerns, the SGF acknowledged the hardships being experienced by many households, including rising economic pressures, insecurity, kidnappings, and the displacement of communities.
He said the Federal Government is fully aware of the burden many Nigerians are carrying and remains committed to finding lasting solutions.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he stated.
Akume added that President Tinubu is leading efforts to confront the challenges with compassion, determination, and a strong sense of responsibility.
On the issue of national security, he stressed that protecting the lives and property of Nigerians remains one of the government’s highest priorities.
He described recent incidents of attacks and abductions in different parts of the country as painful reminders that more work must be done to restore peace and stability.
The SGF assured citizens that securing the freedom of all those currently held captive remains a major national objective.
He explained that security agencies and relevant institutions are receiving the support and resources required to safeguard communities, protect lives, and defend the country’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
He warned that democracy should never be transformed into a battleground for political conflicts and intolerance.
The SGF specifically urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be manipulated for acts of thuggery, political violence, misinformation, 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.
He further appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the media, and families to encourage peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and responsible behaviour as the nation approaches another electoral cycle.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony, and constructive engagement with the international community, Akume maintained that the country’s democratic institutions remain strong despite existing challenges.
The SGF also commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in defending the nation and preserving democratic rule.
He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the June 12 heroes by working together to build a country where elections are peaceful, leaders remain accountable, communities are secure, and every citizen enjoys dignity and equal opportunity.
The church service attracted several prominent figures from across the country, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack.
With political activities gradually gathering momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, Akume called on Nigerians to reject violence, divisive rhetoric, and hate-driven campaigns.
