Democracy Day: Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment To Crush Terrorism, Banditry
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to defeat terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality across the country, declaring that the Federal Government will never surrender to individuals or groups threatening Nigeria’s peace, unity and security.
The President made the declaration through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja on Sunday as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Addressing worshippers on behalf of President Tinubu, Akume said the Federal Government remained fully committed to strengthening security operations nationwide while intensifying efforts to secure the release of citizens abducted by criminal groups.
According to him, the recent wave of attacks, kidnappings and violent crimes in different parts of the country has further reinforced the need for sustained action by security agencies and stronger collaboration among stakeholders in tackling insecurity.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” Akume said while delivering the President’s message.
He stressed that protecting the lives and property of Nigerians remains one of the top priorities of the current administration, adding that the government would continue deploying security resources and intelligence capabilities to confront criminal elements threatening national stability.
The President also assured Nigerians that his administration remains determined to restore peace to affected communities and improve safety across the federation.
Tinubu acknowledged the difficult economic conditions currently facing many citizens and assured the public that the government is taking steps to ease hardship while accelerating the delivery of democratic dividends.
According to the President, the administration is aware of growing public concerns regarding insecurity, inflation, rising food prices and displacement of communities in parts of the country.
He stated that the government is responding to these challenges with renewed urgency through a combination of economic reforms, security interventions and social support programmes.
“The administration understands the pains and difficulties many Nigerians are currently facing, and efforts are ongoing to improve living conditions while ensuring sustainable economic recovery,” Akume conveyed on behalf of the President.
The Democracy Day church service attracted senior government officials, political leaders, religious clerics, security chiefs and members of the diplomatic community.
Christian leaders at the event offered prayers for peace, national unity, improved security and economic recovery as Nigeria continues to confront multiple social and economic challenges.
The event formed part of nationwide activities organized to commemorate Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in honour of Nigeria’s democratic journey and the struggle for civil rule.
This year’s Democracy Day celebration comes at a time of heightened public concern over insecurity following recent incidents of kidnappings, banditry and attacks on communities and schools in different parts of the country.
The Federal Government has in recent weeks faced increasing pressure from opposition parties, civil society organizations and religious groups to intensify efforts against criminal activities and secure the release of abducted citizens.
Among the incidents that triggered national outrage was the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo and Borno states, which sparked protests and calls for stronger security measures.
The government had since announced a series of interventions, including the deployment of specialized rescue units, increased military operations and plans to recruit additional forest guards to strengthen surveillance in vulnerable areas.
President Tinubu reiterated that his administration remains committed to preserving democratic governance while ensuring that Nigerians continue to enjoy the benefits of peace, freedom and development.
He urged citizens to remain united, law-abiding and supportive of lawful efforts aimed at improving national security and stability.
The President also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, community stakeholders and citizens to continue praying for the country and supporting security agencies in the fight against terrorism and violent crimes.
Observers say the President’s message reflects the administration’s attempt to reassure Nigerians amid rising concerns over the security situation and economic difficulties confronting households across the country.
Security experts have repeatedly stressed the need for stronger intelligence gathering, improved community policing and enhanced coordination among security agencies to effectively address Nigeria’s security challenges.
Meanwhile, religious leaders at the Democracy Day service urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country despite current challenges.
They called for national unity, tolerance and collective responsibility in addressing insecurity, poverty and social instability.
The clerics also encouraged leaders at all levels to prioritize justice, accountability and inclusive governance as part of efforts to strengthen democracy and national cohesion.
Democracy Day was officially moved from May 29 to June 12 in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election considered one of the freest and fairest elections in Nigeria’s history.
Since assuming office, the Tinubu administration has repeatedly pledged to improve security, revive the economy and deepen democratic institutions despite mounting political and economic pressures.
The President maintained that the Federal Government would continue taking decisive actions to ensure that criminal groups do not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty, peace and democratic progress.
