Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Sunday urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite ongoing security challenges, saying prayer remains an important tool in confronting terrorism, kidnapping and violent crime.
Speaking at an interdenominational church service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations, Akpabio recalled introducing monthly prayer sessions during his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State to address rising cases of militancy, kidnapping and killings.
The service, themed “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams,” brought together government officials, religious leaders and worshippers to commemorate 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance in Nigeria.
Akpabio said prayer played a significant role in helping the state confront security threats and urged Nigerians to continue seeking divine intervention in addressing the country’s current challenges.
“When I had the opportunity to serve as governor, I started monthly prayer meetings because of militancy, kidnapping and killings,” he said. “We must continue praying so that evil doers and their sponsors will be exposed.”
The Senate president said those responsible for sponsoring violence, whether within or outside government, should be identified and brought to justice.
He acknowledged the pain caused by insecurity across the country, including kidnappings, attacks on communities and the displacement of citizens, while calling for resilience and unity.
“There is no denying that insecurity continues to trouble our land,” Akpabio said. “Communities have been attacked, farmers fear returning to their fields and families continue to mourn loved ones lost to violence and criminality.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, he said the country had overcome numerous challenges, including political crises, economic difficulties, insurgencies and public health emergencies such as the Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks.
“We have survived political upheavals, economic turbulence, insurgencies and pandemics. Yet here we stand — 27 years of democratic governance, constitutional order and renewed hope,” he said.
Akpabio also expressed sympathy for victims of abduction and their families, describing the suffering endured by children held captive and parents uncertain about the fate of their loved ones.
He said the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains committed to restoring peace, combating insecurity and securing the release of all persons in captivity.
“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 the federal government was intensifying efforts to address economic hardship while strengthening security operations across the country.
Akume said authorities remain focused on defeating criminal groups, improving public safety and ensuring the safe return of abducted persons as part of broader efforts to stabilize the country.
Nigeria will commemorate its 27th Democracy Day anniversary on June 12, marking the restoration of civilian rule in 1999 after years of military governance.
