President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration will not bow to terrorism, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation, while reaffirming his commitment to intensifying efforts to ease the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
The message was delivered on his behalf by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held on Sunday at the National Christian Centre in Abuja. The service formed part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
According to a statement by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, the service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted top government officials, including 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, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.
Akume, while conveying Tinubu’s message, congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as proof of the sacrifices and resilience of citizens who fought for the return of democracy.
He also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists of the June 12 struggle, noting that many suffered persecution, injuries and death in the course of the struggle.
Acknowledging the prevailing economic difficulties, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement across the country, the SGF said the government was fully aware of the hardship being experienced by citizens.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is addressing the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
On security, he described recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work still needs to be done, while assuring that securing the release of all abducted persons remains a national priority. He added that security agencies are being strengthened and equipped to better protect lives, safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
He further declared that “the government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation.”
