“Nigeria determined never to return to war” – SGF Akume

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s firm resolve to avoid any return to the tragedies of war, as the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration intensifies efforts to promote peace, religious tolerance, and national cohesion.

Akume made the remarks in Abuja on Tuesday, July 15, 2026, while receiving a delegation from the Community of Saint Egidio led by its Country Representative in Nigeria, Professor Jan De Volder.

The delegation included the Deputy Ambassador of Italy to Nigeria, Mr. Iscopo Foti, and other officials.

The visit was to formally invite the SGF to an international peace gathering scheduled for October in Italy, where global religious and political leaders will convene to discuss strategies for peaceful coexistence and bridging religious divides.

“Since the civil war, Nigerians have made up their minds never to experience war again. While we may have frictions arising from our differences, we are collectively working towards peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and national unity,” Akume stated

The SGF highlighted the Tinubu administration’s commitment to peacebuilding through inclusive governance.

He noted that despite lingering security challenges, the present administration has made significant progress in weakening terrorist and insurgent groups and strengthening social harmony.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working round the clock with all stakeholders to end the barbaric killings and attacks on our citizens.

“Through the Renewed Hope Agenda, the government is also driving economic recovery and ensuring that every segment of the population is carried along in the nation’s development process,” he added.

Akume commended the Community of Saint Egidio for its decades-long global work in peace, humanitarian service, and interfaith dialogue, and welcomed deeper collaboration with international partners.

Prof. De Volder, whose organization has operated in Nigeria for 26 years and globally for 53 years, described the community as founded on the pillars of prayer, poverty, and peace.

He praised Nigeria’s resilience and noted that his personal experiences in the country contrast sharply with often negative international media narratives.

De Volder said the upcoming gathering in Italy would provide a platform for leaders from diverse faiths and political backgrounds to explore practical solutions to division and conflict.

He expressed hope that Nigeria’s experiences in managing diversity would enrich the discussions and invited Senator Akume to participate.

The SGF accepted the invitation and pledged Nigeria’s continued commitment to international partnerships for peace, stability, and sustainable development.