Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has vowed that Nigeria will never surrender to terrorism. His statement came amid rising security threats across the nation.
In a personal message released Saturday, Sanwo-Olu rallied Nigerians behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the armed forces. He urged citizens to set aside political differences during this critical moment.
Recent attacks have sparked widespread concern among Nigerians. But the governor stressed that the country's character demands unity, not panic.
"We are Nigerians," Sanwo-Olu wrote. "Our will is strong and our spirit is unbreakable."
According to him, this is when Nigerians must stand as one people. Support for the nation's leader and security forces cannot depend on political affiliation, he noted.
Every lost life represents a tragedy. Communities under threat deserve solidarity and protection from all quarters, the governor said.
He called for prayers for the teachers and students abducted from Orire Local Government Area in Oyo State. Nigerians must keep faith in their collective strength, he added.
Sanwo-Olu recalled Nigeria's history of overcoming major challenges. Economic crises, political turmoil, and past security threats have all been defeated through resilience and unity.
"This moment will be no different," he declared. Nigeria's current security challenge is not beyond the nation's capacity to solve, he insisted.
In his words, "The forces seeking to spread fear do not represent our people's character." Their goal is to weaken national resolve and undermine confidence.
"We must deny them that victory because we are Nigerians," Sanwo-Olu stated firmly. Surrender isn't an option for this nation.
He called on all Nigerians across states, regions, faiths, and ethnic groups to remain united. Division and despair have no place now, he argued.
This moment demands reaffirmation of shared identity and commitment to peace. Progress and development depend on stability, he noted.
Sanwo-Olu stressed that government cannot win alone in this fight. Citizens must support security efforts through vigilance and intelligence sharing.
Communities need to stay alert at all times. Local residents should continue backing lawful protection initiatives, he urged.
"Together, we can create an environment where criminals find no refuge," the governor said. Active citizen participation is essential to success.
Sanwo-Olu expressed confidence in President Tinubu's leadership abilities. He also backed the security and intelligence agencies' capacity to defeat terrorist elements.
Daily, brave military and police personnel risk their lives. These men and women defend Nigerians against attacks on civilian targets, he acknowledged.
Their sacrifice deserves national recognition and support. Nigerians must honor their commitment through unified action against terror.
