President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and alleviating economic hardship, declaring that Nigeria will never yield to terrorism, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation.
The President’s message was delivered 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, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Akume said the Federal Government was fully aware of the economic challenges confronting Nigerians and was intensifying efforts to ease the burden through the delivery of democratic dividends.
According to him via a statement shared on X, the administration is not insensitive to the plight of citizens and remains committed to implementing policies aimed at improving living conditions across the country.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said, assuring Nigerians that President Tinubu would continue to pursue measures to address the nation’s socio-economic challenges.
On security, the SGF said the Federal Government remained focused on protecting lives and property while ensuring the rescue of citizens held captive by criminal groups.
He noted that security agencies were receiving the necessary support to confront threats and restore peace in affected parts of the country.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
Akume also reflected on Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the achievement as a testament to the sacrifices of patriotic citizens and pro-democracy activists who fought for the restoration of democratic rule.
He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, imprisonment, injuries and even death in the quest for democracy.
With preparations for the 2027 general elections gradually gathering momentum, the SGF urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech and divisive politics.
He specifically warned young people against allowing themselves to be used as tools for political violence, misinformation and other activities capable of undermining national unity.
“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.
Akume further called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote peace, tolerance and responsible conduct as the country approaches another election cycle.
Among dignitaries who attended the service were the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.
