Nigeria will not surrender to terrorists, bandits and other criminals trying to intimidate the country, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said yesterday.
He reiterated his administration’s vow to defeat the agents of violence and secure the release of all Nigerians held in captivity across the country.
The president said that as the country prepares for next year’s polls, Nigerians should shun political violence.
President Tinubu, who spoke during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, said his administration is stepping up efforts to alleviate economic hardship confronting Nigerians.
The Democracy Day Service with the theme: “God of hope, actualizes our dreams,” was attended by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, his wife, Ekaette, House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack.
The president, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, congratulated Nigerians on the 27 uninterrupted years of civil rule, describing the milestone as a testament to the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of Nigerians who fought for the restoration of democracy.
He paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and death in the quest to secure democratic governance.
The President reiterated his commitment to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities, assuring that he would “double his efforts” to ensure that the socio-economic difficulties confronting Nigerians are substantially reduced through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
President Tinubu acknowledged the economic strains, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting several communities across the country.
Noting that his administration is sensitive to these challenges, he assured that they will be addressed with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
The president stressed that the safety of Nigerians is a priority, describing recent attacks and abductions as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.
He said those in captivity would return safely as security agencies and relevant institutions are being supported with the necessary resources to protect lives, secure communities and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
President Tinubu added: “The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation.”
The President also said as the country prepares for 2027 polls, Nigerians should shun violence, hate campaigns and divisive rhetoric, adding that democracy must never be reduced to a battleground.
He urged the youths not to allow themselves to be used for thuggery, political violence, misinformation campaigns, ethnic abuse or religious intolerance.
President Tinubu added: “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.”
The president enjoined religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organizations, and the media to promote tolerance, peaceful co-existence and responsible conduct as the nation moves toward another election cycle.
President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, inter-faith harmony and peaceful engagement with the international community, insisting that despite existing challenges, the democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.
He applauded members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation and sustaining democratic rule.
The president urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of June 12 heroes by working towards a nation where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure and every citizen can live with dignity.
