The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending terrorism and banditry across the country, assuring Nigerians that efforts to restore peace and security remain a top priority.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the assurance on Friday at the Peace and Security Summit Award held in Abuja.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the SGF, Mr Aminu Yar’Gaya, Akume said the government was intensifying measures to combat insecurity and called on the media to support national security efforts through responsible and balanced reporting.
He stressed the importance of reflecting all sides of security-related developments, including the sacrifices of security personnel and the experiences of victims.
“We are concerned about reportage of banditry and terrorism in the country. We are not saying attacks should not be reported, but all sides should be reflected,” he said.
According to the SGF, the Federal Government has made significant investments in the fight against terrorism and banditry and remains determined to strengthen ongoing operations to tackle emerging threats.
He urged journalists and media organisations to partner with security agencies by highlighting the efforts of the military and other stakeholders working to address insecurity across the country.
Speaking at the event, the convener of the summit, Ms Jennifer Serrano, described the gathering as timely, considering the security challenges confronting the nation.
She noted that tackling terrorism and banditry requires collective action and called on Nigerians to support government initiatives aimed at improving security and stability.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Rep. Benson Babajimi, said the National Assembly remained committed to partnerships that would strengthen legal frameworks, promote national unity and enhance peacebuilding efforts.
Represented by the Deputy Chairman of the committee, Rep. Ahmad Kalambaina, Babajimi described the summit as an important platform for addressing the country’s growing security concerns.
He emphasised that peace and security form the foundation for national development, noting that laws, policies and government programmes can only thrive in a secure environment.
“In our society, peace and security are not just words; they are the true foundation of unity. Without peace, our laws and policies cannot work,” he said.
The lawmaker further stated that the responsibility for maintaining security extends beyond government institutions, stressing that citizens must remain vigilant and security-conscious.
According to him, effective security depends largely on the level of cooperation between communities and security agencies, as well as the willingness of citizens to contribute to crime prevention efforts.
He called for greater commitment from all stakeholders to address the security challenges facing the country and ensure lasting peace.
