Democracy Day: Tinubu Pledges Stronger Efforts to Reduce Hardship, Urges Nigerians to Reject Political Violence

President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to address the economic challenges facing citizens and improve living conditions across the country.

The 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 in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

Delivering the President's message, Akume congratulated Nigerians on 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance since 1999, describing the achievement as a reflection of the resilience, sacrifices, and commitment 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, imprisonment, injuries, and even death in their quest to secure democratic rule in Nigeria.

According to the SGF, President Tinubu remains committed to fulfilling his constitutional mandate and will strengthen efforts to ensure that the benefits of democracy are felt more directly by Nigerians.

He acknowledged the economic hardship affecting many households and assured citizens that the government is fully aware of the challenges posed by rising living costs, insecurity, kidnappings, and the displacement of communities in different parts of the country.

Akume said the government understands the pains being experienced by Nigerians and is working with determination and compassion to address them.

On security, he reaffirmed that protecting lives and property remains one of the Federal Government's top priorities. He described recent attacks, kidnappings, and other security incidents as painful reminders that more work remains to be done.

The SGF stressed that securing the release of all persons currently held captive remains a national priority and disclosed that security agencies are receiving the support and resources needed to combat criminal activities, safeguard communities, and defend the nation's territorial integrity.

He further declared that the Federal Government would not yield to terrorism, banditry, or any form of criminal intimidation.

With political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections beginning to gather momentum, Akume called on Nigerians to reject violence, hate speech, and divisive politics.

He specifically urged young people not to allow themselves to be used as tools for political thuggery, misinformation campaigns, ethnic hostility, religious intolerance, or electoral violence.

According to him, no political reward or financial inducement is worth sacrificing one's future, conscience, or integrity.

The SGF also appealed to religious leaders, traditional institutions, civil society groups, media organisations, and families to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and responsible civic engagement as the nation prepares for another electoral cycle.

He reiterated Nigeria's commitment to democratic governance, national unity, religious harmony, and constructive engagement with the international community, adding that despite existing challenges, the country's democratic institutions remain strong and resilient.

Akume commended members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in protecting the nation and preserving democratic governance.

He concluded by urging Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the June 12 heroes by working together to build a country where elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, communities are secure, and every citizen has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.

The church service was attended by several top government officials and dignitaries, including Godswill Akpabio, Benjamin Kalu, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Didi Walson-Jack.