Akpabio to Senators: final stretch begins, we must finish strong
Akpabio to Senators: final stretch begins, we must finish strong
Akpabio to Senators: final stretch begins, we must finish strong
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged members of the 10th National Assembly to approach the remaining months of their tenure with urgency, discipline, and a strong sense of legacy.
He said the Senate has entered the “final stretch” of its legislative journey.
On resumption of plenary from its Christmas and New Year break, the Senate yesterday observed a minute silence and adjourned session in honour of its late member, Godiya Akwashiki (SDP, Nasarawa North) who passed on December 31, last year. The senator has been buried.
Akpabio said this in his welcome address at the first plenary sitting of the Senate for this year.
In the House of Representatives, which also resumed yesterday from its Christmas and New Year break, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu told fellow lawmakers that the Green Chamber will prioritise work on the Electoral Act, Constitution amendment, among other vital legislations, this year
Welcoming senators back to the Red Chamber, Akpabio urged them to translate feedback from their constituencies during the recess into laws and oversight actions that directly respond to the needs of Nigerians.
The Senate President noted that while lawmakers were away, the country continued to grapple with economic pressures, security challenges, and social demands.
He stressed that the Senate must respond with renewed commitment and focus.
Akpabio said the joy of resumption was tempered by the death of Senator Akwashiki, describing the late lawmaker as a diligent and humble public servant.
The Senate President said Akwashiki’s contributions would be deeply missed by the Senate and the nation.
He led the senators in observing a minute of silence in honour of the deceased and extended condolences to his family, constituents, and the people of Nasarawa State.
Putting his attention national security, Akpabio lauded the ongoing military collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism, stating that such partnerships were critical to restoring peace and stability.
The Senate President also sympathised with the families affected by insecurity across the country, describing security as a matter of lives, homes, and the future.
The Senate President expressed concern over a recent United Nations (UN) warning that up to 35 million Nigerians could face hunger this year.
He described the figure as alarming and unacceptable.
According to him, the development calls for urgent legislative action, stronger oversight and collaboration with relevant stakeholders to boost food security and protect vulnerable citizens.
As political activities gradually build up nationwide, Akpabio appealed to political parties and actors to conduct themselves with civility, conscience, and patriotism.
The Senate President warned that Nigeria’s unity and stability must not be sacrificed on the altar of ambition.
