Nigeria’s Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has called on lawmakers to uphold accountability, discipline, and purposeful governance as the upper chamber resumed plenary after a 10-week recess.
Addressing senators on Tuesday in Abuja, Akpabio reminded them of their duty to deliver tangible results to Nigerians, not excuses.
“To the citizens of Nigeria, we hear you. You asked us not for excuses, but for results. We will remain accountable and responsive,” he said, according to Channels Television.
Akpabio stressed the importance of maintaining order within the legislature, warning against any attempt to undermine its authority.
“Those who seek to weaken the legislature seek to delete the structure of democracy itself,” he declared.
Describing governance as a “sacred duty of trust and not theatrics,” Akpabio urged lawmakers to prioritise competence and integrity when making political choices.
“If our politics must remain, let us choose the right men for the service of our nation, not the loudest voices or those who seek office as an ornament, but those worthy of the people’s trust,” he said.
The Senate President also highlighted key national issues, calling for urgent action to address widespread flooding across several states. He assured victims that the 10th Senate would not relent in supporting relief efforts.
On the economy, Akpabio noted improvements in oil production and commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for stabilising state finances.
“Today, no state governor is borrowing to pay salaries,” he said, urging continued fiscal discipline.
The day’s sitting also marked the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, who had been suspended for six months.
The National Assembly had embarked on its annual recess in July, a period traditionally used by lawmakers to combine legislative duties with constituency engagements and personal activities.