‎Tinubu Vows No Surrender to Terrorists, Promises Relief for Nigerians Amid Hardship

‎President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will not bow to terrorists, bandits, or any form of criminal intimidation, while pledging renewed efforts to ease the economic hardship facing citizens across the country.
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‎The President’s assurance was conveyed on Sunday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
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‎Speaking on behalf of the President, Akume reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s security and economic challenges, stressing that the administration remains determined to secure the release of all persons currently held captive by criminal groups.
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‎The Democracy Day service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” attracted top government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Didi Walson-Jack.
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‎Congratulating Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, Akume described the milestone as a testament to the resilience, sacrifice and commitment of citizens who fought for the restoration and sustenance of democracy.
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‎He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and other pro-democracy activists who endured persecution, injuries and even death in pursuit of democratic governance, urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from their sacrifices in building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
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‎Addressing the economic difficulties confronting many households, the SGF acknowledged the widespread hardship, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across the country. He said the government is fully aware of the challenges and remains committed to delivering sustainable democratic dividends that will improve the welfare of citizens.
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‎“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume stated, assuring Nigerians that President Tinubu is working diligently to reduce the burden on citizens through targeted policies and interventions.
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‎On security, the SGF emphasized that protecting lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government. He described recent attacks and abductions as unfortunate developments but assured Nigerians that security agencies are being provided with the necessary support and resources to confront criminal elements and safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity.
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‎“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
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‎As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to gain momentum, Akume urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy must not be turned into a battleground for conflict.
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‎He particularly advised young people against participating in political thuggery, misinformation campaigns, 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.
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‎The SGF also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote peace, tolerance and responsible conduct as the nation prepares for another electoral cycle.
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‎He further reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and ensuring that the benefits of democracy are felt by all Nigerians.