President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to address the spiralling insecurity and secure the release of all persons held captive across the country.
Data compiled by PREMIUM TIMES since President Tinubu assumed office showed that over 12,000 people have been kidnapped and 7,000 others killed by terror groups and criminal gangs terrorising Nigeria.
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In addition, more than 600 students and teachers have been abducted since Mr Tinubu took over power. However, the abductions of over 80 students from schools in Borno and Oyo states in May have heightened concerns about the safety of Nigerians and schoolchildren, forcing the government to order the recruitment of local security guards.
Tinubu’s message
Mr Tinubu’s message was conveyed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held in Abuja on Sunday as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, according to a statement signed by his spokesperson, Yomi Odunuga.
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The service, themed ‘God of hope, actualise our dreams,’ was attended by top government officials 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 the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack.
Delivering the president’s message, Mr Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, describing the milestone as a reflection of the resilience, commitment and sacrifices of citizens who fought for the restoration of democracy.
He also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and patriots of the June 12 struggle, noting that many endured persecution, injuries and death in pursuit of democratic governance.
The SGF said President Tinubu remained committed to fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities and would “double his efforts” to substantially reduce the socio-economic difficulties confronting Nigerians through the delivery of sustainable democratic dividends.
Acknowledging the economic hardship, insecurity, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across the country, Mr Akume said the government understood the concerns of citizens.
“Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” he said, adding that Mr Tinubu was leading efforts to address the challenges with compassion and a strong sense of responsibility.
On security, Mr Akume said the safety of Nigerians remained a top priority of the Federal Government, describing recent attacks and abductions as reminders that more work was required.
He assured citizens that the safe return of all persons in captivity remained a national priority and that security agencies were receiving the support needed to protect lives, secure communities, and preserve Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” he declared.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum, the SGF urged Nigerians to reject violence, hate campaigns, and divisive rhetoric, warning that democracy should never be turned into a battleground.
He particularly cautioned young people against allowing themselves to be used for thuggery, political violence, misinformation campaigns, ethnic abuse or 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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Mr Akume also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, the media and families to promote tolerance, peaceful coexistence and responsible conduct as the nation approaches another election cycle.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance, interfaith harmony, and peaceful engagement with the international community, insisting that, despite existing challenges, the country’s democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.
The SGF commended members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding 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 every citizen can live with dignity.
