President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed the federal government’s unwavering determination to defeat insecurity, secure the release of all captives, and systematically alleviate the current economic hardships gripping Nigerian households.
The President’s assurance was delivered on Sunday, by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.
The service, themed “God of hope, actualise our dreams,” formed part of official activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day.
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In his address, Akume congratulated the country on achieving 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since the return to civil rule in 1999.
He described the milestone as a powerful testament to the resilience and willpower of the Nigerian people.
READ ALSO: Tinubu vows to revolutionize Nigeria’s economy
Paying a poignant tribute to the pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, the SGF recalled the heavy price paid by heroes who faced intense persecution, physical injuries, and death to establish a democratic foundation for the country.
He urged citizens to let those past sacrifices inspire the collective building of a stronger nation.
Economic strain
Acknowledging the heavy socio-economic strain, kidnappings, and displacement affecting various communities, the SGF emphasized that the administration is not blind to the difficulties citizens are experiencing.
He stated that the President is approaching these complex national challenges with deep empathy and a heightened sense of responsibility.
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To counter these pressures, Akume announced that the presidency is set to double its current administrative efforts to ensure that economic hardships are drastically minimized through the swift delivery of sustainable developmental policies.
“The government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” the SGF stated.
He emphasised that the administration is actively scaling up targeted relief measures.
Turning to national security, the SGF labeled recent criminal raids and abductions as painful reminders of the work ahead.
He promised that the safe return of every citizen currently held in captivity remains a non-negotiable national priority, adding that the state will continue to arm and support security agencies to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Akume declared.
With political campaigns gradually gaining momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the SGF warned against transforming the democratic space into a theater of violence.
He directed a specific appeal to young Nigerians, urging them to resist being manipulated into thuggery, cyberbullying, or spreading divisive misinformation.
“Do not rent out your conscience for money, drugs, political patronage or online applause,” the SGF cautioned the youth.
READ ALSO: Tinubu scraps 5% tax on telecom services
“Your future is worth more than any politician’s temporary convenience.”
The high-profile service drew prominent dignitaries from across the political landscape, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu; the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.
The SGF called on traditional rulers, clerics, and the media to actively champion peaceful coexistence as the nation approaches its next political transition.
