President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will not bow to bandits, terrorists, or any form of criminal intimidation, reaffirming his commitment to tackling insecurity and restoring peace across the country.
The president’s message was delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, during the national inter-denominational church service held in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
According to Akume, the Tinubu administration remains fully aware of the economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting many Nigerians and is taking steps to address the challenges with urgency.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said.
The SGF stated that the president has directed efforts towards strengthening security agencies, improving intelligence gathering, and ensuring that Nigerians held captive by criminal groups are safely reunited with their families.
He stressed that the safe return of kidnapped citizens remains a priority for the government, adding that ongoing security operations will continue to receive the support needed to confront threats across the country.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Akume declared.
The SGF also assured citizens that the administration is working to ease economic pressures and ensure that the benefits of democracy are felt more broadly across the nation.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Akume said the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999 is a testament to the resilience of Nigerians and the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy, particularly during the June 12 struggle.
With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections beginning to gather momentum, the SGF urged politicians and citizens to reject violence, hate speech, and divisive rhetoric.
He specifically warned young Nigerians against allowing themselves to be used for political thuggery, misinformation campaigns, or acts capable of threatening national peace and stability.
“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 groups, media organisations, and families to continue promoting peace, tolerance, and national unity.
He also commended members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices and commitment to protecting the country and safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy.
The president, through the SGF, reiterated that his administration remains focused on confronting insecurity, strengthening national unity, and improving the welfare of Nigerians despite the challenges facing the nation.
Source: Presidency / Office of the SGF.
