Senate Resumes As Akpabio Urges Lawmakers To Put National Interest Above Politics

By Jane Salihu

The President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, has charged lawmakers to place national interest above partisan politics as the Senate resumed plenary after its short legislative recess.

Delivering his welcome address at the reopening of the Senate, Akpabio said the return of lawmakers marked a renewed commitment to addressing the country’s pressing challenges, particularly insecurity, economic development and the welfare of Nigerians.

He noted that although the Senate was on recess, lawmakers remained engaged with their constituents and responded whenever national duty called, stressing that democracy does not go on holiday.

According to him, the period also witnessed political activities across the country, including party primaries, which he described as a healthy demonstration of democratic practice. He urged political actors to respect constitutional processes, saying the strength of democracy lies not only in conducting elections but in respecting their outcomes.

The Senate President, however, expressed concern over the country’s persistent security challenges, lamenting that many Nigerians, including abducted schoolchildren in Ondo State and other victims of terrorism and kidnapping, remain in captivity.

He assured affected families that the Senate shares in their pain and reaffirmed confidence in the Armed Forces, the Police and intelligence agencies to secure the release of those still being held by criminal groups.

Akpabio pledged the continued support of the National Assembly for policies, legislation and funding aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, noting that peace remains the foundation for economic growth and national development.

He observed that investors, farmers, businesses and schools cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear, emphasizing that every law and appropriation directed towards protecting lives contributes directly to the nation’s future.

The Senate President reminded lawmakers that Nigerians expect the upper chamber to provide effective legislation, diligent oversight and courageous leadership. He said citizens are looking to the Senate to enact laws that stimulate economic growth, improve education and healthcare, protect vulnerable groups, create opportunities for young people and safeguard workers’ welfare.

He called on senators to conduct oversight responsibilities objectively and without partisanship while ensuring accountability in governance.

Akpabio also appealed for unity among members of the Senate, urging them to pursue constructive debates and nation-building rather than political divisions.

Quoting the Roman statesman Cicero, he said the welfare of the people must remain the highest law, adding that the constitutional responsibility of government to guarantee the security and welfare of citizens should guide every legislative action.

He expressed optimism that the new legislative session would be remembered for patriotism and service if lawmakers remained committed to the Nigerian people above political interests.

The Senate thereafter commenced legislative business, marking the official resumption of plenary after the short recess.