Easter: Tinubu rallies Nigerians, vows victory over insecurity, economic hardship

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu on Friday called for national unity, resilience and collective responsibility as Nigeria grapples with persistent insecurity and economic pressure, declaring that “a new dawn is on the horizon” despite current challenges.

In his 2026 Easter message, the President acknowledged the strain facing Nigerians but insisted that ongoing reforms and security efforts were beginning to yield results, even as he admitted that threats from terror and banditry remain.

“This season reminds us of sacrifice, resilience, and the triumph of light over darkness,” Tinubu said, linking the Easter message to Nigeria’s current realities.

“For us in Nigeria, the essence resonates with our current realities as we navigate a period marked by economic strain and security challenges,” he added.

The President noted that while his administration and security forces had intensified operations, insecurity persists in parts of the country.

He, however, assured that decisive steps were being taken through increased funding and international collaboration.

“My administration continues to make resources available and forge foreign partnerships to enable us to deal decisive blows to the agents of terror and banditry,” he stated.

Tinubu referenced his recent visit to Plateau State, where he met with victims of violence, saying security chiefs had given “strong assurances of progress,” adding that assistance from foreign partners was already being received.

“To other parts of the country also enduring one form of insecurity or the other, rest assured that concerted efforts are already yielding breakthroughs,” he said.

Amid growing economic concerns, the President defended his administration’s reform agenda, describing it as necessary for long-term national prosperity.

“The ongoing reforms, though demanding in their immediate impact, have been carefully put together; to take us to a shared prosperity,” Tinubu said, adding that “true transformation cannot be achieved without sacrifice.”

He also used the Easter message to caution political actors ahead of the next electoral cycle, urging adherence to the Electoral Act and responsible conduct.

“Democracy flourishes where responsibility, restraint, and informed participation prevail,” he said, calling on citizens to prioritise peace, stability and national interest.

Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to support government efforts and promote unity, warning that progress cannot be sustained in an atmosphere of fear.

“No nation can thrive where fear prevails, and no progress can be sustained without peace,” he added.

While acknowledging the hardship faced by citizens, the President expressed optimism that economic indicators were improving and that the country was on the right path.

“Even as present conditions still put pressure on many of our people, economic indicators show we are making the right choices. A new dawn is on the horizon,” Tinubu said.

He urged Nigerians to “keep the faith” and continue contributing to national development, expressing confidence in a “democratically stronger, more prosperous, and safer nation.”