On October 8, 2026, the Nigerian Senate leadership made a collective call to all Nigerians to keep faith with the nation as it commemorates its 66th Independence. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, in a speech titled "Keeping Faith with Nigeria," emphasized that despite the challenges confronting the country, Nigerians should remain committed to making the nation a better place. Akpabio urged citizens to continue working towards a safe and secured society, as well as an enabling environment for the actualization of dreams and attainment of goals by governments at various levels.
Akpabio's speech was a call to action for fellow Senators, tasking them with leveraging their legislative functions and powers to make Nigeria more functional for its citizens. He emphasized that the Senate's victories would be measured in safer communities, better livelihoods, and a stronger country for those they serve. The Senate President also expressed sympathy for those affected by violence, kidnappings, and floods, assuring them of the Senate's attention, resolve, and constitutional responsibility to address their plight.
Akpabio specifically called on security agencies to pursue the rescue of captives and the protection of vulnerable communities with renewed vigor. He also urged every level of government to match their dedication with action taken in time to address the needs of those affected by disasters. Furthermore, Akpabio emphasized the need for the Senate to examine figures, forecasts, and reforms with care, particularly in relation to the economy, which affects citizens directly.
In his remarks, Akpabio also touched on the 2027 general elections, urging fellow politicians and Nigerians to protect the interest of Nigeria above all else. He called for a vigorous, open, and honest contest, where candidates speak with conviction and citizens are free to decide without fear of violence or intimidation. Akpabio emphasized that no electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life and that patriotism requires clear eyes, courage, and steadfastness to build a better nation.
Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, echoed Akpabio's sentiments, urging Nigerians to keep hope alive and assuring them of a safe and secure nation in the nearest future. Barau appealed for unity of purpose, resilience, and faith in the collective capacity of Nigerians to overcome present difficulties and emerge stronger. He emphasized that with cooperation, Nigerians can build a stronger, more prosperous, and more secure nation.
The Senate leaders' messages were goodwill messages to Nigerians on the occasion of the country's 66th independence anniversary. Their calls for unity, hope, and collective action resonated with citizens, who are eager for positive change and a better future for the nation. As Nigeria continues to face challenges, the Senate's commitment to working towards a safer, more prosperous, and more secure nation is seen as a step in the right direction.
The Nigerian Senate's emphasis on keeping faith with the nation comes at a critical time, when citizens are eager for leaders to demonstrate commitment to addressing the country's numerous challenges. By urging citizens to remain hopeful and committed to nation-building, the Senate leaders have set a positive tone for the nation's future. As Nigerians look forward to the 2027 general elections, the Senate's call for a peaceful, open, and honest contest is seen as a crucial step towards a more stable and prosperous future.
Key points
- Nigerian Senate leaders urge citizens to keep faith with the nation on its 66th independence anniversary.
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio calls for a vigorous, open, and honest contest in the 2027 general elections.
- Deputy President Barau Jibrin urges Nigerians to keep hope alive and assures them of a safe and secure nation in the nearest future.
