Senate President Godswill Akpabio has expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome banditry and insurgency in 2026 and beyond, urging citizens to remain hopeful, united, and committed to peace.
Akpabio gave the assurance while speaking at a prayer and fasting service held in honour of the Akpabio family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, in Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Calling on Nigerians to set aside political, ethnic, and religious differences, the Senate President said national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity.
“I want to wish all Nigerians a very prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to assure all Nigerians that the new year will usher in renewed peace in our country,” he said.
Speaking specifically on security, Akpabio said he was confident that Nigeria would defeat banditry, insurgency, and other criminal threats confronting the nation. He urged Nigerians across party lines to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in tackling insecurity.
According to him, renewed collaboration with international partners would further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and help dismantle criminal networks.
Reflecting on the significance of Christmas, Akpabio said the birth of Jesus Christ symbolises hope and redemption, expressing optimism that Nigeria would also experience redemption from insecurity.
“For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten son to redeem mankind,” he said. “By the reason of the birth of Jesus Christ, Nigerians will be redeemed from banditry and insurgency in the new year and beyond.”
He also highlighted the importance of family unity, noting that peace within families contributes to peace and development at the societal and national levels.
In her remarks, the wife of the Senate President, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, encouraged family members to support one another selflessly and live in love and unity.
Similarly, the head of the Greater Akpabio Family, Chief Ekan Akpabio, called on family members to continue supporting the Senate President, describing him as a worthy ambassador of the family, Essien Udim Local Government Area, and Akwa Ibom State.
