Banditry Will Be Defeated in 2026 and Beyond – Akpabio Reassures Nigerians

The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has expressed strong confidence that banditry and insurgency in Nigeria will be brought under control in 2026 and the years ahead. He encouraged Nigerians to remain optimistic, united, and committed to sustaining peace across the country despite prevailing security challenges.

Akpabio gave this assurance during a special prayer and fasting service held in honour of the Akpabio family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, located in Ukana Ikot Ntuen, Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

While addressing worshippers at the event, the Senate President stressed that national growth and development cannot thrive without peace and unity. He called on Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, and political differences and collectively work toward building a safer and more equitable nation.

According to him, the coming year signals renewed hope for the country. He assured citizens that efforts aimed at restoring security are ongoing and will yield positive outcomes.

“I wish all Nigerians a prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to reassure everyone that the new year will usher in renewed peace across the nation,” Akpabio stated.

Speaking further on Nigeria’s security situation, Akpabio reiterated his belief that the nation would overcome banditry, insurgency, and other criminal threats. He urged Nigerians from all political backgrounds to support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing that security is a collective responsibility.

He noted that strengthened cooperation with international partners remains a key strategy in confronting criminal activities threatening Nigeria’s stability, adding that collaborative security frameworks would further enhance national safety.

Reflecting on the spiritual significance of Christmas, Akpabio explained that the birth of Jesus Christ represents redemption, renewal, and hope for humanity. He likened this symbolism to Nigeria’s current struggle with insecurity, expressing belief that the nation would also experience redemption.

“God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten Son to redeem mankind. By that same reason, Nigerians will experience redemption from banditry and insurgency in the new year and beyond,” he said.

The Senate President also highlighted the importance of family unity, explaining that peace within families directly contributes to harmony and development at both community and national levels.

In her remarks, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, called on members of the Akpabio family to remain supportive of one another. She encouraged them to embrace love, unity, and selflessness while setting aside personal differences for the collective good.

Also speaking at the gathering, Chief Ekan Akpabio, head of the Greater Akpabio Family, appealed to family members to continue standing behind Senator Akpabio. He described him as a worthy representative of the family, Essien Udim Local Government Area, and Akwa Ibom State.

Chief Akpabio further advised relatives occupying political offices to stay connected to their roots, urging them to consistently prioritize the welfare of their communities and extended family members.