President assures Nigerians of intensified efforts to tackle insecurity, reduce economic challenges, and protect democratic values ahead of the 2027 elections.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating insecurity across the country and ensuring the safe release of all persons currently held captive by terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements.
The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, made the pledge 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.
Addressing worshippers and dignitaries at the event, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remains focused on restoring peace and security while also intensifying efforts to ease the economic hardship facing many citizens.
According to Akume, the President acknowledged the challenges confronting the nation, including insecurity, kidnappings, displacement of communities, and rising economic difficulties, but stressed that the government is taking deliberate steps to address them.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said while delivering the President’s message.
He added that the administration would strengthen support for security agencies and relevant institutions to ensure the protection of lives and property across the country.
“The safe return of all persons in captivity remains a national priority. The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he stated.
The President also assured Nigerians that his administration would work harder to reduce the socio-economic challenges affecting households through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, President Tinubu congratulated citizens on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as evidence of the resilience and determination of Nigerians who fought for the restoration of democracy.
He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many sacrificed their freedom and lives to secure democratic governance for future generations.
With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gradually gaining momentum, the President called on politicians and citizens to reject violence, hate campaigns, and divisive rhetoric.
Akume particularly urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used for political violence, misinformation campaigns, ethnic hatred, 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 warned.
The President further called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media, and families to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and national unity.
The Democracy Day service was attended by several prominent government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Didi Walson-Jack.
President Tinubu reiterated that despite the nation’s challenges, Nigeria’s democratic institutions remain strong and capable of delivering progress, peace, and prosperity for all citizens.