Date: June 7, 2026 l By Ebere Emmanuel
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to defeat terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent criminality, declaring that Nigeria will never surrender to terrorists, bandits or forces seeking to destabilize the country. The president made the remarks as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebrations in Abuja.
Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, at the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, Tinubu assured Nigerians that his government remains committed to restoring security and protecting citizens across the country. He stressed that despite ongoing security challenges, the federal government would not succumb to intimidation from criminal groups.
“The government of Nigeria shall never succumb to terror, banditry or any form of criminal intimidation,” the president said, while urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and continue supporting efforts aimed at securing the nation.
Tinubu acknowledged the hardships facing many Nigerians but insisted that his administration was working to address both economic and security concerns simultaneously. According to him, defeating insecurity remains essential to achieving sustainable economic growth, attracting investment and improving living conditions across the country.
The president’s comments come amid renewed concerns over terrorist and bandit attacks in several parts of northern Nigeria. Security challenges linked to armed groups have continued to affect communities, resulting in deaths, displacement and destruction of property despite ongoing military operations.
Tinubu maintained that recent attacks reflected the desperation of criminal groups facing intensified military pressure. He expressed confidence that government forces would ultimately prevail, assuring citizens that Nigeria would overcome terrorism and banditry. Similar assurances have been repeatedly issued by the administration in recent months as security agencies intensify operations against insurgents and armed gangs.
The president further pledged that his administration would continue strengthening the nation’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced military capacity and closer collaboration among security agencies. He emphasized that protecting lives and property remains one of the government’s highest priorities.
As Nigeria prepares to commemorate another Democracy Day, Tinubu called on citizens to remain united and resilient, expressing confidence that the country would emerge stronger from its current security and economic challenges. He reiterated that the fight against terrorism and banditry would continue until peace and stability are fully restored across the nation.