Akpabio Urges Senate To Unite Against Economic, Security Challenges As Plenary Resumes

…Assures of Senate’s urgent intervention

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday, called on Senators to unite against the country’s economic and security challenges.

Akpabio made this call in his address of welcome to Senators, at the resumption of the nation’s apex legislative Chamber from its two-month annual recess, saying that while the Judiciary stands as the last refuge of the common man, it is the Legislature that embodies the first glimmer of hope for the common man.

According to him, if the Legislature as the architects of the nation’s destiny, can stem the tide when it rises and set the sails with purpose, the Executive will navigate with greater ease, and the Judiciary will ensure that the course defined by our collective will is adhered to.

His words: “As we gather once more in this esteemed chamber to resume our crucial work for the people of Nigeria, I choose to describe our reconvening as a vital undertaking. This is because our responsibilities as legislators transcend the boundaries of time and space as we work around the clock.

“As I have often reiterated, while the Judiciary may stand as the last refuge of the common man, it is the Legislature that embodies the first glimmer of hope for the common man.

“I believe that if we, as the architects of our nation’s destiny, can stem the tide when it rises and set our sails with purpose, the Executive will navigate with greater ease, and the Judiciary will ensure that the course defined by our collective will is adhered to.

“The recent break was an opportunity for us to connect with the heartbeat of your constituents, instilling in them the belief that brighter days lie ahead. In the past three months, we have witnessed a myriad of significant developments—both trials and triumphs—that demand our immediate attention and resolute action.

Akpabio who expressed deep concerns about the agonising economic conditions of Nigerians, assured that the members of the National Assembly have a duty to respond to the situation with urgency and compassion.

He said: “In the face of rising economic pressures, our fellow citizens have been grappling with the harsh realities of inflation, soaring living costs, and an unpredictable market.

“These challenges have tested the very fabric of our society, and I stand here today to express our deepest empathy for every Nigerian who bears the burden of these trying times. Your struggles are not lost on us; it is our sacred duty, as your earnest representatives, to respond with urgency and compassion.”

The President of the Senate however, observed that the harsh economic situation in the country notwithstanding, there had been some commendable strides in various sectors by the Executive Arm led by President Bola Tinubu.

He said: “Yet, amidst these trials, we have also seen commendable strides in various sectors, thanks to the Executive Arm led by His Excellency President Bola Tinubu, GCFR. Our agricultural initiatives are beginning to bear fruit, and the strides made in infrastructure development are paving the way for a brighter future.

“However, these hard-won gains must not overshadow the pressing issues that still loom large before us. We must prioritize the security of our nation, ensuring that every citizen can walk down any street in this country without fear.

“The recent surge in insecurity, particularly in various regions, is a clarion call for us to double our efforts in crafting laws and taking decisive actions to safeguard our communities.”

Continuing, Akpabio noted: “As we embark on this new legislative session, I thank all of you for exhibiting a great sense of patriotism and a nationalistic spirit in your work in this chamber.

I implore each of you to continue to reflect upon the j of the responsibilities we bear. We are, indeed, the voice of the people—entrusted with the sacred mandate to advocate for their rights and elevate their lives.

“The challenges we face are formidable, yet we must confront them with unwavering candour and relentless determination. We shall neither retreat nor surrender in our quest to uplift the fortunes of our fellow Nigerians. We must prove ourselves worthy of the trust they have placed in us.

“In this spirit of resolve, Let us pledge that we shall work hand in hand with the Executive branch, ensuring that the fruits of democracy and good governance are not mere ideals, but tangible realities that every Nigerian can experience. We must be tireless in our pursuit of policies that promote economic stability, enhance security, and foster social justice.

“We must meet the rising tide of cynicism in our land with steadfast resolve, genuine engagement, renewed commitment, and a clear vision for change.

“Let us commit ourselves to transparency and accountability in our dealings, for it is through our integrity and openness that we shall uphold the trust of the people. We must engage with our constituents, listen intently to their grievances, and ensure that their voices resonate within these hallowed walls.

“Let each of us be a clarion call, akin to John the Baptist in the Holy Bible and Yaḥyā ibn Zakariyā in the Holy Quran (one and the same person), proclaiming that in this blessed country, every valley shall be exalted, every mountain and hill made low; that the crooked paths made straight, and the rough places made smooth; and that all flesh shall bear witness to the success of our collective efforts.

Therefore, as we continue on this journey, I urge you to remain patient and steadfast. Change demands time, yet with unity and shared purpose, we can and will make a profound difference. Let us inspire hope in the hearts of our people, reminding them that their dreams and aspirations are not only valid but achievable.

“In conclusion, I deeply appreciate all your wonderful labours of love and great sacrifices for our great country. I call upon you all to approach this session with renewed vigour and a sense of unwavering purpose. Let us return to our communities as champions of their cause, and as the voices they long to hear. Together, we shall illuminate the path toward a more prosperous Nigeria.”