President reiterates determination to defeat insecurity whilst intensifying efforts to ease economic hardship

President Bola Tinubu has vowed that his administration will never succumb to terrorism, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation, reaffirming the government’s resolve to defeat insecurity and secure the release of all persons held captive across the country.

Tinubu conveyed this message through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, on Sunday during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” was attended by prominent government officials including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.

Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga, issued a statement confirming the president’s commitment.

“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Tinubu stated through Akume.

The president’s message comes amidst persistent security challenges including terrorism, banditry, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across the country, coupled with severe economic hardship facing many Nigerian households.

Insecurity threat and government response

Akume assured citizens that the safe return of all persons held in captivity remains a national priority for the administration. Security agencies and relevant institutions are being supported with necessary resources to protect lives, secure communities and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“The government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said, acknowledging the hardship facing many Nigerians.

The SGF stated that the administration was fully aware of the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting various parts of the country.

The government committed to responding with urgency and compassion to address these challenges. Akume noted that the administration is intensifying measures to strengthen security architecture whilst working to ease the economic burden on citizens.

Insecurity and the path to sustained democracy

Akume congratulated Nigerians on achieving 27 uninterrupted years of democratic rule since 1999, describing the milestone as a testament to the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.

“The country’s 27 years of democratic governance reflects the resilience of Nigerians and the sacrifices of pro-democracy advocates, particularly those who lost their lives during the June 12 struggle,” Akume said.

He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists who endured persecution, injuries and even death in securing democratic governance for the nation.

President Tinubu pledged to intensify efforts to ease economic hardship whilst remaining resolute in tackling insecurity.

“The president is committed to fulfilling his constitutional duties and will double efforts to ease the economic hardship facing citizens through improved delivery of democratic dividends,” the statement read.

Warning against violence and divisive rhetoric

With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually building momentum, Tinubu urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech and divisive rhetoric. The president warned that democracy must not be turned into a battleground.

Addressing young people specifically, Tinubu cautioned against being used for thuggery, misinformation campaigns and political violence.

“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 stated.

Call for national unity

Akume also appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct ahead of the 2027 elections.

The SGF commended the armed forces and other security agencies for their role in safeguarding the country and sustaining democracy. He reiterated the government’s appreciation for their efforts in protecting lives and maintaining national security amidst challenging circumstances.

The president’s message represents the administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s multifaceted challenges whilst maintaining democratic institutions and protecting citizens from security threats.