President Bola Tinubu has firmly declared that his administration will never capitulate to terrorists, bandits, or any type of criminal coercion, while also pledging to ramp up efforts to alleviate the economic difficulties facing Nigerians.
The President, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, delivered this message on Sunday at the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja. The event was part of the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations, under the theme “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams.” Senior government officials in attendance included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service Didi Walson-Jack.
Akume, conveying Tinubu’s remarks, congratulated Nigerians on 27 consecutive years of democracy since 1999, calling this achievement a proof of the resilience and sacrifices made by those who fought for democratic restoration. He honored the pro-democracy activists of the June 12 struggle, many of whom suffered persecution, injuries, and death.
The President acknowledged that the government fully comprehends the economic strain, insecurity, kidnappings, and displacement affecting communities across the nation. “The government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume stated, adding that Tinubu is confronting these challenges with compassion and a strong sense of duty.
On security, Tinubu described recent attacks and abductions as painful indicators that more work remains, but assured citizens that the safe return of all captives is a top national priority. He confirmed that security agencies are being provided with the necessary resources to protect lives, secure communities, and uphold Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared emphatically.