The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains dedicated to nation-building, despite the numerous challenges facing Nigeria. He made this statement at the second quarterly meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja, which took place on September 24, 2026. Akume emphasized that the President is committed to creating a nation that Nigerians can be proud of.
Nigeria is currently experiencing diverse challenges, including violence, banditry, kidnappings, communal clashes, and terrorist attacks. These incidents have resulted in the loss of many lives, including beloved relations, teachers, traders, and parents. Many children have also been affected, with some experiencing fear at school gates. The government's investment in the safe school initiative has not been enough to alleviate these concerns, with parents still afraid to let their children go to school or the market.
According to Akume, the government, under President Tinubu's leadership, has been working tirelessly to address these security concerns. The Armed Forces, security agencies, and the police are intensifying their operations to reclaim every part of the nation from non-state actors and criminals. The government has also been implementing programs and strategies to strengthen intelligence gathering, sharing, and rapid response mechanisms, as well as fortifying security at soft target locations such as churches, mosques, schools, and markets.
Akume stressed that the government's efforts to build a formidable security system must be complemented by other stakeholders, as it is a joint responsibility. He called on leaders of faith, traditional and community leaders to speak with one voice to effectively counter the narrative of division. All religions must condemn the barbaric tactics of bandits and terrorists, as they debase humanity and violate all that faiths stand for.
The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the need for unity in the country despite differences. He stated that the recent initiative organized by the Muslim World League and NIREC, which saw over 50 Muslim and Christian leaders sign a peace accord aimed at "building social harmony" in August 2026, was a step in the right direction.
Akume commended the initiative and stated that the government will support follow-up workshops in key geo-political locations to implement its commitments. He urged religious and traditional leaders to promote tolerance and peace, and guide their congregations to respect one another's places of worship and encourage honest discourse on economic and social issues.
The Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) meeting aimed to bring together leaders of different faiths and backgrounds to discuss the country's challenges and find solutions. The event provided a platform for stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to peace and unity in the country.
Key points
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is committed to building a nation Nigerians will be proud of despite current challenges.
- The government is working to address security concerns, including violence, banditry, and terrorist attacks.
- Stakeholders, including leaders of faith and traditional leaders, must work together to promote tolerance and peace in the country.
