The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on Nigerians to uphold peace and unity as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.
Akume made the call on Sunday at the National Church Service organised as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary at the National Ecumenical Centre, Abuja.
Speaking during his vote of thanks at the service themed: “Anchored in Hope: The Path to Divine Stability and Shared Prosperity,” the SGF said democracy could only be sustained when citizens prioritised peace and unity.
He urged Nigerians to approach the 2027 elections with hope, saying votes should not be cast along lines that promote division.
“As we look toward the 2027 elections ahead, let us remember that democracy is sustained by peace and unity,” Akume said.
“Our votes must be cast not in division, but in hope. Let us choose dialogue over discord, and unity over separation, so that our electoral process truly reflects the will of a united people.”
The SGF said Nigeria’s 66-year journey had been marked by sacrifices, challenges and achievements, noting that the country had also recorded two and a half decades of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999.
He said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey while renewing their commitment to building a more prosperous, secure and united nation.
Akume also called for the consolidation of economic reforms and stability for the benefit of Nigerians.
He said, “From reforms, we have built stability. From stability, let us deepen growth and opportunity, and from growth, let us extend shared prosperity to every corner of Nigeria.”
According to him, the vision should be a Nigeria where economic progress benefits every community, adding that such a future must be grounded in the hope shared by Nigerians.
The SGF further urged citizens to maintain the spirit of unity beyond the independence celebration, saying Nigerians might disagree on several issues but should not lose sight of what binds them together.
“May the spirit of this service continue in our homes, workplaces and public life. As citizens of one country, we may debate many things, but we must never lose sight of what unites us,” he said.
Akume also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and for approving the national church service as part of the independence anniversary activities.
He thanked the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the leadership and members of the National Assembly, members of the Federal Executive Council, the judiciary, security agencies, traditional rulers, diplomatic corps, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), clergy, worship leaders and others who participated in the service.
The SGF also commended the security agencies for their efforts in preserving the country’s territorial integrity and protecting Nigerians, while praying for the safety of security personnel and their families.
He called for continued prayers for Nigeria and its leaders, asking God to preserve the peace and unity of the country.
“We have only one country, Nigeria, a beautiful land of opportunity and plenty and it is God who will continue to guide and uphold it,” Akume said.
