ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Federal Government has reaffirmed its determination to combat insecurity and alleviate economic hardship, declaring that Nigeria will never surrender to terrorism, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation.
President Bola Tinubu’s message was delivered on Sunday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, 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.
Speaking on behalf of the President, Akume said the administration is fully aware of the economic challenges confronting Nigerians and is taking steps to cushion their effects through the provision of democratic dividends.
According to him, the government understands the difficulties citizens are experiencing and remains committed to addressing them.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said, assuring Nigerians that President Tinubu would intensify efforts to tackle the country’s socio-economic challenges.
On the security situation, the SGF stated that the Federal Government remains focused on safeguarding lives and securing the release of persons held captive, stressing that security agencies are receiving the support needed to respond effectively to threats across the country.
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He emphasized that despite the prevailing security challenges, the nation would not yield to criminal elements.
“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 result of the sacrifices made by citizens and pro-democracy activists who fought for the restoration of democratic rule.
He paid tribute to heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and even death in the quest to secure democracy for the country.
With preparations gradually building toward the 2027 general elections, Akume called on Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech and divisive politics.
He particularly cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be used for political thuggery, misinformation campaigns or other activities capable of undermining the democratic process.
“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 further urged religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to play active roles in promoting peace, tolerance and responsible conduct as the country heads into another election season.
Among dignitaries who attended the church service were the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.
The Democracy Day event formed part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s democratic journey and renewed calls for national unity, peace and civic responsibility ahead of the next electoral cycle.