RismadarVoice Reporters
June 7, 2026
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the country’s security challenges, expressing confidence that Nigeria will overcome insurgency and criminal violence just as it survived previous political crises, economic hardships and pandemics.
Akpabio spoke on Sunday during an Inter-Denominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, held as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Addressing the congregation on the theme, “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” the Senate President said Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule demonstrated the resilience of its people and institutions.
“We have survived political upheavals, 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, 27 years of hope renewed,” he said.
Akpabio, however, acknowledged that insecurity remains a major concern, noting that attacks on communities, kidnappings and violence continue to affect many Nigerians.
“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,” he said.
The Senate President expressed sympathy for victims of kidnapping and their families, describing the abduction of children and other innocent citizens as a national tragedy.
Drawing from his childhood experience during the Nigerian Civil War, Akpabio said he understood the anguish of families whose loved ones remain in captivity and assured Nigerians that government efforts to restore peace would continue.
He called on citizens to remain steadfast in prayer, saying spiritual support was vital in confronting the country’s challenges and exposing those behind acts of violence.
Akpabio also reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to combating insecurity, rescuing kidnapped victims and defeating criminal groups across the country.
“We shall continue to act together, pray together, and persevere until our children are safely returned and our nation is secure,” he said.
Also speaking at the service, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said President Tinubu had assured Nigerians that his administration would intensify efforts to address economic hardship and strengthen security nationwide.
