Senate President Godswill Akpabio
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a passionate call to members of the National Assembly to act boldly and decisively in tackling Nigeria’s deepening economic crisis, warning that millions of Nigerians can no longer afford inaction.
Speaking at the Senate’s resumption of plenary in Abuja on Tuesday, Akpabio underscored the severity of the nation’s food crisis and broader economic challenges, saying the legislature must partner with the executive to drive urgent reforms.
> “Hunger cannot be defeated with words; it requires policy, budget and political will,” he said, highlighting that over 33 million Nigerians are currently facing acute food insecurity.
The Senate President urged lawmakers to prioritise legislation that addresses food production, agricultural infrastructure, irrigation, and mechanisation to ease the burden on citizens already grappling with rising living costs, insecurity, and unreliable power supply.
> “These trials summon us to service with uncommon urgency and in partnership with the executive arm, so that together we can rewrite the story of our nation,” Akpabio told his colleagues.
He stressed the need for comprehensive economic reforms that would not only attract foreign and domestic investments but also expand Nigeria’s tax base and stimulate inclusive growth.
Beyond the economy, Akpabio called for transformative efforts in education and healthcare to provide young Nigerians with the tools they need to succeed. He also announced that the Senate will revisit the 1999 Constitution to strengthen federalism and enhance democratic governance.
Akpabio emphasized that the National Assembly’s oversight functions must be wielded with integrity and responsibility.
> “Our relationship with the executive shall remain frank and firm. Where policies lift our people, we shall lend our support; where they endanger them, we shall speak up.”
Reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to transparency and public accountability, Akpabio said:
> “This Senate will not shrink from scrutiny; we welcome it because accountability is the lifeblood of democracy.”
He also had a message for Nigerian citizens:
> “To the citizens of Nigeria, we say this: we hear you and understand your expectations. You ask not for excuses but for results.”
As the 10th National Assembly resumes full legislative business, Akpabio urged his colleagues to return to their duties with renewed energy, promising that history would remember them not for evasion, but for leadership.
> “Let history record that in our time, we did not shy away from the truth or our responsibilities, but worked as leaders worthy of the people’s trust.”
