We will not surrender to terrorists, bandits — Tinubu assures Nigerians

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to ease the economic hardship facing citizens while remaining committed to defeating insecurity and securing the release of all persons held captive across the country.

The assurance was conveyed by George Akume during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” was attended by several dignitaries, including Godswill Akpabio, Benjamin Kalu, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Didi Walson-Jack.

Delivering President Tinubu’s message, Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic rule since 1999, describing the milestone as a reflection of the resilience and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.

He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and even death in pursuit of democratic governance.

According to the SGF, President Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and will intensify efforts to reduce the socio-economic challenges confronting Nigerians through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.

Acknowledging the hardship facing many households, Akume said the government was fully aware of the economic difficulties, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across the country.

“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that the President was addressing the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.

On security, Akume stressed that protecting lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government. He described recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.

He assured Nigerians that the safe return of all persons in captivity remains a national priority and said security agencies are receiving the necessary support to secure communities and preserve the nation’s territorial integrity.

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

With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections beginning to gather momentum, the SGF urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy should never become a battleground.

He specifically appealed to young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be used for political violence, thuggery, misinformation campaigns, ethnic abuse or 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.

Akume also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct as the country approaches another election cycle.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony and peaceful engagement with the international community, insisting that despite existing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain resilient.

The SGF further commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation and sustaining democratic rule, urging Nigerians to honour the legacy of June 12 by working towards a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and citizens can live with dignity.

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