Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of President Bola Tinubu's administration to tackling insecurity and restoring lasting peace across Nigeria, assuring citizens that ongoing efforts by the federal government will ultimately yield positive results.
Speaking during a special Jummat prayer held at the National Mosque in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations, Shettima acknowledged the security challenges facing parts of the country but expressed confidence that the government remains firmly on course to address them.
The Vice President said President Tinubu has not relented in his determination to confront threats posed by bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements, stressing that peace and stability remain central to the administration's agenda.
He also assured families whose loved ones are still in captivity that government agencies are working relentlessly to secure their safe return.
Drawing on themes of hope and resilience, Shettima urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the nation's future, noting that difficult periods eventually give way to progress.
According to him, despite current challenges, the administration remains committed to creating a safer environment that will enable economic growth, development and national cohesion.
The Democracy Day prayer gathering brought together prominent political leaders, government officials and elder statesmen, reflecting the significance attached to the annual event.
Among those in attendance were Chairman of the Nigeria Governors' Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola, and former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
Others present included former Secretary to the Government of the Federation Mahmoud Yayale Ahmed, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Abubakar Kyari, and the outgoing Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Ishaq Oloyede.
Shettima further called on Nigerians to continue praying for the country and for one another, emphasizing that the values and aspirations shared by citizens are stronger than the differences that often dominate public discourse.
Earlier in his sermon, the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Haroun Eze, urged leaders across all levels of government to intensify efforts aimed at addressing insecurity and improving the welfare of citizens. He noted that peace remains the foundation upon which national development, prosperity and social stability are built.
The annual Democracy Day prayer service served as an opportunity for reflection on Nigeria's democratic journey, while also highlighting the urgent need for unity and collective action in confronting the security and economic challenges facing the nation.
