President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its current security challenges just as it successfully navigated previous political upheavals, economic difficulties, and global pandemics.
Akpabio made the assertion on Sunday during an Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Speaking on the theme, “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” the Senate President urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and thankful as the nation celebrates 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to him, despite the numerous challenges confronting the country, Nigeria has consistently demonstrated resilience and the capacity to overcome adversity.
“We have survived political upheavals and economic turbulence. We will survive insurgencies. We have survived pandemics like Ebola and COVID-19 and seasons of despotism. Yet here we stand 27 years of democratic governance, 27 years of constitutional order, and 27 years of hope renewed,” he said.
Akpabio, however, acknowledged the painful reality of insecurity across the country, noting that attacks on communities, kidnappings, and violent crimes continue to inflict hardship on citizens.
He explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directed that this year’s Democracy Day celebration be observed in a low-key manner in view of the prevailing security situation.
“There is no denying that insecurity continues to trouble our land. Communities have been attacked. Farmers fear returning to their fields. Travellers journey with uncertainty. Families mourn loved ones lost to violence and criminality. The kidnapping of innocent citizens, especially children, wounds the conscience of our nation,” he stated.
Reflecting on his childhood experiences during the Nigerian Civil War, Akpabio said he could relate to the anguish faced by families whose loved ones remain in captivity.
He described the abduction of children as a national tragedy but assured Nigerians that brighter days lie ahead.
“The evil you see today, you shall soon see no more. We must continue praying so that evil-doers and their sponsors will be exposed, whether they are within or outside government. Those sponsoring violence, politically motivated or otherwise, must be defeated,” he said.
The Senate President also reaffirmed the commitment of the Tinubu administration to securing the release of kidnapped victims, defeating terrorism and criminality, and restoring peace across the country.
“On the part of the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this administration remained steadfast in its determination to secure the freedom of those in captivity, defeat the forces of terror and criminality, and restore peace to our communities. We shall continue to act together, pray together, and persevere until our children are safely returned and our nation is secure,” he added.
Also speaking at the service, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, conveyed President Tinubu’s assurance that his administration would intensify efforts to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
Akume reiterated the Federal Government’s determination to tackle insecurity across the country and ensure the safe release of all persons currently held captive.
He urged Nigerians to remain united and continue supporting government efforts aimed at strengthening national security and improving citizens’ welfare.
The Democracy Day church service formed part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, with prayers offered for peace, unity, security, and national development.
