June 08, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the Federal Government will not succumb to terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminal intimidation, while renewing his administration’s commitment to reducing economic hardship and improving citizens’ welfare across the country.
Tinubu gave the assurance through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held on Sunday in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted top government officials, religious leaders, and dignitaries from across the country.
Among those in attendance were 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 Didi Walson-Jack.
Congratulating Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, Akume described the milestone as a testament to the resilience, sacrifices, and commitment of citizens who fought for the restoration and sustenance of democratic rule in the country.
He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, suffered injuries, and made the ultimate sacrifice in pursuit of democratic ideals.
According to the SGF, President Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and will intensify efforts aimed at substantially reducing socio-economic challenges through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
Akume acknowledged the difficult realities confronting many Nigerians, including economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting households and communities in several parts of the country.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said.
He stated that the President was approaching the nation’s challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility while leading efforts to improve living conditions and restore public confidence.
Speaking on security, Akume said the protection of lives and property remains one of the Federal Government’s highest priorities, noting that recent attacks and abductions across parts of the country have underscored the need for stronger interventions.
He assured citizens that the safe return of all persons currently in captivity remains a national priority, adding that security agencies are being strengthened with the necessary support and operational resources to improve effectiveness.
“The government will never succumb to terror, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually begin to gather momentum, Akume urged Nigerians to reject violence, divisive rhetoric, and hate campaigns capable of threatening national unity and democratic stability.
He particularly cautioned young people against involvement in political thuggery, violence, misinformation, ethnic abuse, and 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 warned.
The SGF also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, families, and the media to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence, and responsible conduct as the country approaches another election cycle.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony, and constructive international engagement, Akume maintained that the nation’s democratic institutions have continued to demonstrate resilience despite prevailing challenges.
He further commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices and dedication in protecting the country and sustaining democratic rule.
Akume urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the June 12 heroes by working collectively toward building a nation where elections are peaceful, leadership is accountable, communities are secure and citizens live with dignity.
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