President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to address the economic hardship facing citizens while remaining resolute in tackling insecurity and securing the release of all persons held captive across the country.
The assurance came from Tinubu in a message delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, at 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,” was attended by prominent government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries.
Others who were present include 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.
Akume told Nigerians that the 27 years of unbroken democratic rule since 1999 was a tribute to their resilience, commitment and sacrifices in the fight for the restoration of democracy.
He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of June 12 struggle, saying many suffered persecution, injuries and death in quest for democratic governance.
The SGF stated that the President was still determined to carry out his constitutional duty and would intensify his efforts to ensure that the socio-economic challenges facing Nigerians were reduced by a large margin through the provision of sustainable democratic dividends.
He recognised the difficulty faced by many households, including insecurity, kidnappings and displacement in some communities.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains. Government shares in these pains. Government has heard you cries,” Akume said.
He says Tinubu is leading the efforts to tackle the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
On security, the SGF said the safety of Nigerians remained a top priority of the Federal Government, describing recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work remain to be done.
He said that the safe return of all persons in captivity is still a national priority and assured citizens that the necessary support and resources were being provided to the security agencies to protect lives and property.
“The government will never bow to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he said.
Akume has called on Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns, and divisive rhetoric as political activities gearing up for the 2027 general elections slowly pick pace.
He also warned young people against involvement in thuggery, political violence, misinformation, ethnic abuse and religious intolerance.
“Don’t sell your conscience for money, drugs, political patronage or online claps. “Your future is worth more than any politician’s temporary convenience,” he said.
As the nation approaches another election cycle, the SGF called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony and peaceful engagement with the international community, emphasizing that the country’s democratic institutions were strong and resilient in the face of current challenges.
Akume commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in defending the nation and maintaining democratic rule.
He called on Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the heroes of June 12 by working for a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are safe and citizens live with dignity.
