Akpabio Urges Hope Amid Security Challenges

By Babatunji Wusu| Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to remain optimistic despite the country’s security challenges, expressing confidence that the nation will overcome its current difficulties.

Akpabio made the appeal on Sunday during an inter-denominational church service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities commemorating Democracy Day. The service was themed, “God of Hope, Actualise Our Dreams.”

Speaking at the event, the Senate President reflected on Nigeria’s history of overcoming major national challenges, including political instability, economic hardships, health emergencies and years of military rule.

According to him, the country has demonstrated resilience through difficult periods and has successfully sustained democratic governance for 27 years.

“We have survived political upheavals, economic turbulence. We will survive insurgencies,” Akpabio said.

He noted that Nigeria had also weathered crises such as the Ebola outbreak and the COVID-19 pandemic, stressing that the nation possesses the strength to overcome its present security concerns.

The Senate President acknowledged that insecurity remains a major issue across the country, explaining that this year’s Democracy Day celebration was deliberately kept low-key in recognition of the prevailing situation.

Akpabio expressed concern over attacks on communities, the fear preventing many farmers from returning to their farms and the anxiety experienced by citizens while travelling.

He also highlighted the emotional impact of kidnapping incidents, particularly those involving children, describing such cases as deeply troubling.

“The kidnapping of innocent citizens, especially children, wounds the conscience of our nation,” he stated.

Drawing from his personal experiences during the civil war, Akpabio said the suffering of abducted children resonates strongly with him and should never be ignored.

He urged Nigerians to remain united in confronting the challenges facing the country.

“We shall continue to act together, pray together, and persevere until our children are safely returned and our nation is secure,” he added.