By Seun Ibiyemi
President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to alleviate economic hardship, tackle insecurity and secure the release of all persons held captive across the country.
The President gave the assurance in a message delivered by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held on Sunday in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The 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 State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Didi Walson-Jack.
Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing the milestone as evidence of the resilience and determination of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.
He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, noting that many pro-democracy activists endured persecution, injuries and even death in pursuit of democratic rule.
The SGF said President Tinubu remained committed to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and would redouble efforts to ensure that the socio-economic difficulties confronting Nigerians are significantly reduced through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
Acknowledging the hardship experienced by many households, including insecurity, kidnappings and displacement in some parts of the country, Akume said the government was fully aware of the challenges facing citizens.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said.
According to him, the President is addressing the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
On the security situation, Akume reiterated that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of the Federal Government.
He described recent attacks, kidnappings and abductions as painful reminders that more work remains to be done in securing the country.
The SGF assured Nigerians that the safe return of all persons currently in captivity remains a national priority, adding that security agencies are receiving the necessary support and resources to combat criminality.
“The government will never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he stated.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Akume urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns and divisive rhetoric, warning that political activities must not undermine national unity and peace.
He specifically advised young people against engaging in political thuggery, 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 also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible civic engagement as the nation moves closer to another election cycle.
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He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony and constructive engagement with the international community, stressing that the nation’s democratic institutions remain strong despite prevailing challenges.
Akume further commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in protecting the country and sustaining democratic rule.
He urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the June 12 heroes by working towards a nation where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and citizens can live with dignity and hope.
