President Bola Tinubu has pledged that his administration will intensify efforts to ease economic hardship, tackle insecurity, and secure the release of citizens held captive in various parts of the country.
The President’s assurance was conveyed on Sunday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The service, themed: “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” brought together top government officials, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.
Those in attendance included Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, among others.
Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as a testament to the resilience and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the return of democracy.
He also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists involved in the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries, and even death in the course of the democratic agitation.
According to him, President Tinubu remains committed to his constitutional responsibilities and will intensify efforts to ensure that current socio-economic challenges are significantly reduced through the delivery of democratic dividends.
He acknowledged the hardship being experienced by many households, including insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement in several communities.
Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Mr Akume said.
He added that President Tinubu is addressing the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of duty.
On security, the SGF stressed that safeguarding lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government, noting that recent attacks and abductions serve as painful reminders of the work still ahead.
He assured Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to ensure the safe rescue of all those in captivity, adding that security agencies were being strengthened and adequately supported to respond more effectively.
“The government will never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he said.
Mr Akume also urged citizens to shun violence, hate speech, and divisive rhetoric as political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections.
He warned young people against engaging in thuggery, electoral violence, misinformation, ethnic hostility, and 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 said.
The SGF called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media, and families to promote unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence as the country approaches another election cycle.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony, and constructive engagement with the global community, insisting that democratic institutions remain strong despite prevailing challenges.
Akume also commended the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in protecting the nation and sustaining democratic rule.
He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the June 12 heroes by working toward a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure, and citizens live with dignity.
