Nigerian Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue citizens held captive by armed groups across the country. In his address to the upper chamber, Akpabio referenced recent abductions in Marisa, Dekera Mosque, and other parts of the nation. He stated that parliament cannot consider itself free while citizens remain in captivity. Akpabio emphasized that the Senate would deploy its powers to support security institutions and safeguard lives and property.
Akpabio delivered a speech titled “Keeping Faith with Nigeria,” setting the legislative agenda around security, flood relief, economic relief, and political decorum ahead of the 2027 general elections. He welcomed senators back to plenary following their annual recess, which began on July 23. The Senate President emphasized that the legislative body would focus on addressing pressing national challenges, including the rising cost of living, widespread insecurity, and severe flooding.
Akpabio highlighted the recent flooding disasters that destroyed homes and farmlands during the recess. He called on all levels of government to expedite emergency response and relief measures to prevent food shortages and support affected families. The Senate President also acknowledged the severe economic hardships facing ordinary Nigerians and insisted that lawmakers must remain aligned with the everyday struggles of the people.
The Senate President pointed to families struggling with food prices and unemployed graduates as stark examples of the realities citizens face outside the walls of the National Assembly. He emphasized that many Nigerians continue to bear a very heavy cost of living. Akpabio stressed the importance of carefully examining ongoing economic reforms to address the pressing national challenges.
Akpabio reiterated the Senate’s renewed commitment to addressing the national challenges confronting citizens. He affirmed that the National Assembly would intensify its constitutional duties—through legislation, appropriation, and oversight—to deliver concrete remedies rather than passive sentiment. The Senate President emphasized that their victories should be measured in safer communities, better livelihoods for all Nigerians, and a stronger country.
With political activities intensifying ahead of the 2027 general elections, Akpabio cautioned political actors against divisive rhetoric, religious profiling, and electoral violence. He emphasized that those who seek office need not see eye to eye in order to walk hand in hand as Nigerians. Akpabio reassured the public that lawmaking will not yield to political campaigns, affirming that senators will remain at their posts throughout the electioneering period.
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, Akpabio noted that public officers must uphold patriotism and steadfastness in addressing national challenges. He emphasized that no electoral prize is worth a Nigerian life. The Senate President concluded by affirming the Senate's commitment to supporting security institutions and safeguarding lives and property.
Key points
- The Nigerian Senate has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue citizens held captive by armed groups.
- The Senate has set its legislative agenda around security, flood relief, economic relief, and political decorum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has emphasized the need for lawmakers to remain aligned with the everyday struggles of the people.
