The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s unity and sovereignty, declaring that it will not allow terrorism, hate-driven rhetoric, or divisive actions to destabilise the country. The warning came amid growing concerns over insecurity and rising political tension.
Speaking at the Second Triannual Meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) held in Abuja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, said Nigeria had been under significant pressure in recent months due to internal security threats, heightened political rhetoric, and declining mutual trust that nearly escalated into religious tension.
Akume expressed regret that Nigeria had come under international scrutiny, often for the wrong reasons, fueled by what he described as the misrepresentation of its security situation on global platforms.
“In the midst of these challenges, we must remind ourselves that Nigeria remains a strong, united, and sovereign nation,” he said.
“We have survived crises in the past, including a brutal civil war. Our independence is non-negotiable. We cannot allow terror or division to sink the ship of state.”
He urged religious leaders, traditional rulers, and other influential voices to promote harmony and support the government’s efforts to tackle insecurity. He also dismissed the classification of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” by the United States, insisting that both Christian and Muslim communities have suffered attacks, and the government continues to engage diplomatic channels to correct global misconceptions.
Foreign Affairs Minister Calls for Stronger Defence of Constitutional Order
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has urged ECOWAS member states to remain steadfast in defending constitutional governance and promoting inclusive political dialogue. She made the call at the opening of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers in Abuja.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the rise in military coups, banditry, and kidnappings across the region as threats to democratic stability and regional cohesion.
“These situations challenge not only our democratic values but also undermine hard-won development gains and weaken citizen confidence,” she warned.
She emphasised the need for credible political transitions and accelerated regional economic integration, noting that West Africa’s youth population expects ECOWAS to create real opportunities and stability.
Army Chief Praises Troops for Foiling Coup in Benin Republic
Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Shaibu Waidi, has commended the Nigerian Army’s 81 Division for their swift intervention that helped foil a recent attempted coup in the Republic of Benin.
During his maiden visit to the division’s headquarters in Lagos, Waidi hailed the troops’ rapid mobilisation as “the hallmark of true soldiering.”
“Once the instruction was given, the officers moved immediately and executed the task effectively. Congratulations to all of you,” he said.
Waidi reassured personnel that their welfare, accommodation, allowances, children’s education, and healthcare would remain top priorities under his leadership. He also commended the decline in illegal duties and urged soldiers to maintain discipline and uphold core values.
As part of his visit, the COAS inaugurated several new and refurbished facilities at the Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja Cantonment in Ikeja, including a reconstructed basketball court sponsored by First Bank, a remodelled Quarter Guard funded by Air Peace Airlines, and a newly completed 9 Brigade Headquarters Complex. He also planted a commemorative tree to mark the occasion.
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