Democracy Day: Nigeria Will Never Succumb to Terror, Banditry — Tinubu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling insecurity and easing economic hardship across the country, declaring that Nigeria will not surrender to terrorism, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s position was conveyed 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 acknowledged the economic challenges confronting Nigerians and assured citizens that the administration remains committed to delivering policies and programmes aimed at reducing hardship and improving living conditions.

According to him, the government is fully aware of the difficulties many Nigerians are facing and is taking steps to address them through the delivery of democratic dividends and targeted interventions.

“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that President Tinubu would continue to intensify efforts to tackle the country’s socio-economic challenges.

On security, Akume stressed that the Federal Government remains focused on protecting lives and property while supporting security agencies in their efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities across the country.

He assured Nigerians that authorities are working to secure the release of citizens currently held captive by criminal groups and strengthen measures aimed at restoring peace and stability.

“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.

The SGF also reflected on Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing it as the result of sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists and citizens who fought for the restoration of democratic rule.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, Akume urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to reject violence, hate speech, misinformation, and divisive politics. He warned against being used by politicians for thuggery or disruptive activities.

He also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media, and families to promote peace, tolerance, and national unity as the country prepares for another election cycle.