President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has stated that those financing terrorism and other violent crimes in Nigeria will ultimately be identified and exposed, irrespective of their influence or position in society.
Akpabio made the declaration on Sunday during an Inter-Denominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, held as part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Addressing the congregation, the Senate President acknowledged the persistent security challenges confronting the country, including kidnappings, killings and insurgent attacks. Despite these difficulties, he urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, emphasizing the importance of prayer and national unity in overcoming insecurity.
Reflecting on his tenure as governor of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio recalled introducing a monthly prayer programme nearly two decades ago in response to increasing incidents of militancy, kidnapping and violent crime in the state. He stressed the need for continued prayers until those responsible for the violence and their backers are uncovered and brought to justice.
“When I had the opportunity to serve as governor about 19 years ago, I started monthly prayer. I used to ask myself a question whenever there was militancy, kidnapping and killing. I would say, what if we were not praying?
“Today I want you to ask the same question, the things happening around us, what if we were not praying. We must continue praying so that the evil doers and their sponsors shall be exposed in Jesus Name.
“If they are in government, they shall be exposed. If they are outside government, they shall be exposed in Jesus Name. Those sponsoring it, whether it is politically motivated or not, may they never have peace until they are defeated.”
The Senate President described insecurity as one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, noting that several communities have come under attack while many farmers and travellers continue to face threats to their safety.
However, he expressed confidence that the nation would overcome its current difficulties, drawing parallels with previous periods of political uncertainty, economic hardship and public health crises that Nigeria had successfully navigated.
According to Akpabio, the country’s democratic progress demonstrates its resilience, and citizens should maintain hope despite prevailing challenges.
He also spoke about the anguish experienced by families of abducted persons, describing the uncertainty surrounding the fate of loved ones as one of the most painful experiences any family can endure.
Recalling his experiences during the Nigerian civil war, Akpabio said the plight of children and other victims held in captivity across the country should remain a matter of concern for all Nigerians.
The Senate President assured citizens that the security situation would improve, expressing optimism that the country would eventually enjoy greater peace and stability. He further stated that the administration of President Bola Tinubu remains focused on restoring security and securing the release of those held by kidnappers and other criminal groups.
Also speaking at the service, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the Federal Government was stepping up efforts to tackle insecurity and ease economic pressures on citizens.
Akume affirmed that authorities would continue to strengthen strategies aimed at defeating terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements, while pursuing the safe rescue and return of all abducted victims.
The church service was one of several events organised to mark Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day anniversary, which the Federal Government said would be celebrated on a modest scale.
