President Bola Tinubu has declared that individuals and groups financing terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping in Nigeria will face severe consequences, warning that the Federal Government will no longer tolerate those who profit from violence and insecurity. The President made the declaration in his national address to mark Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebration, where he reflected on the nation’s democratic journey while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the country.
In a speech marked by strong security rhetoric, Tinubu issued an ultimatum to bandits, kidnappers, and terror financiers, urging them to surrender while they still have the opportunity. He stressed that the window for repentance would not remain open indefinitely and warned that those responsible for the bloodshed of innocent Nigerians would face the full force of the law. According to the President, his administration is determined to dismantle criminal networks and eliminate threats to national stability.
Highlighting progress made by security agencies, Tinubu disclosed that more than 13,000 terrorists had been neutralised within the past year. He also noted that terror-related deaths in the country have significantly declined compared to previous years, attributing the improvement to intensified military operations, enhanced intelligence gathering, and stronger collaboration with international partners. The President stated that Nigeria’s security forces have moved beyond conventional strategies and are now employing more precise and coordinated operations against terrorist groups and criminal elements. ..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Despite these achievements, the President acknowledged that insecurity remains a major concern for many Nigerians. He expressed sadness over the continued abduction of schoolchildren in parts of the country, describing such incidents as a painful reminder of the work that still needs to be done. Tinubu assured citizens that efforts to secure the release of those held captive and prevent future attacks remain a top priority for his administration.
Beyond security, the President used the Democracy Day occasion to celebrate Nigeria’s democratic progress, noting that the country has enjoyed 27 consecutive years of civilian rule since 1999. He described this period as the longest stretch of uninterrupted democratic governance in the nation’s history and urged Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions. According to him, while democracy may not be perfect, it remains the most effective system for resolving political differences peacefully and ensuring national development.
Tinubu also called on key institutions, including the National Assembly, the judiciary, the media, and civil society organisations, to continue playing their constitutional roles in safeguarding democracy. He encouraged constructive criticism and healthy political engagement, emphasizing that national unity and collective responsibility are essential for building a stronger Nigeria.
Addressing economic concerns, the President maintained that reforms introduced since 2023 are beginning to yield positive results. He pointed to increased government revenues, improved fiscal transparency, and growing investor confidence as signs that the country is gradually moving in the right direction. He assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to creating opportunities, improving infrastructure, and delivering the dividends of democracy to citizens across the country.
The Democracy Day address ultimately served as both a celebration of Nigeria’s democratic resilience and a firm declaration of the government’s determination to confront insecurity. With his warning to terror financiers and criminal sponsors, Tinubu signaled a tougher approach against those undermining national peace, insisting that Nigeria will not surrender to terror and that those responsible for violence will be held accountable.
