Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Nigerians to remain united and resilient in the face of worsening insecurity, saying the country can overcome its current challenges through collective action, vigilance and faith in national institutions.
Sanwo-Olu made the call in a statement reacting to recent incidents of violence and abductions in parts of the country, including the reported kidnapping of teachers and students in Oyo State. He said the attacks had understandably caused fear and anxiety among citizens, but urged Nigerians not to allow insecurity to deepen ethnic, religious or political divisions.
The governor said every life lost to violence was a national tragedy, adding that communities affected by attacks and kidnappings deserved the support, protection and solidarity of all Nigerians.
He called for prayers for victims of recent abductions and their families, while urging citizens to support ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to restore peace. Reuters reported that school abductions, previously more common in northern Nigeria, have recently spread to the southwest, including attacks in Oyo State that left families demanding the return of their children.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria’s history had shown that the country could survive difficult moments when citizens remained united and determined. He noted that the nation had previously faced economic hardship, political instability and security threats, but had repeatedly shown resilience.
“In trying moments like this, Nigerians must never lose faith in our nation or in our collective ability to overcome adversity,” he said. “We are Nigerians. The seed of greatness lies within every one of us.”
The governor emphasised that government alone could not defeat insecurity, calling on communities to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to security agencies. He said intelligence sharing, cooperation with law enforcement and community awareness were critical to preventing attacks and rescuing victims.
Sanwo-Olu also expressed confidence in the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the commitment of security agencies to protect lives and property. He urged security personnel to remain dedicated to their duties, despite the difficult conditions under which many operate.
The governor further encouraged young people, parents and families to remain hopeful, saying Nigeria’s unity and collective strength would ultimately prevail over those responsible for violence and instability.
He maintained that the fight against insecurity required national solidarity, not blame or division, and appealed to citizens to stand together in defence of peace, safety and national progress.
