Akpabio @63: Senate President Opts Against Grand Birthday Celebration

By our Correspondent

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has explained why he chose not to hold an elaborate celebration for his 63rd birthday, citing the prevailing mood of the nation.

Akpabio turned 63 on Tuesday, but the occasion was marked quietly, with a simple birthday cake presented by the staff and aides in his office following the Senate Plenary. A few Senators were in attendance.

Speaking after the cake-cutting, Akpabio said he deliberately avoided a grand celebration due to the ongoing national challenges.

“For some of our children to still remain in captivity, as parents, our hearts are wounded,” he said. “On the one hand, we continue with our work. On the other hand, we pray that soon, God will enable our security chiefs to recover all the children in captivity. And for those who lost their lives in trying to protect these children, may their souls rest in perfect peace.”

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin praised Akpabio as a remarkable leader. “The Senate President is a special person, a wonderful man. Even if you are sad, he will make you laugh. We should continue to pray for him and his family for good health, long life, and prosperity,” Jibrin said.

Senate Leader Michael Opeyemi Bamidele commended Akpabio’s leadership and intellect, saying, “Even those who are not fully in support will concede to your high cerebral capacity. We celebrate your leadership, your candour, and your humility. You have always been like a flower in our midst – sweet, pure, and simple.”

Former Bayelsa Governor and South-South Senate Caucus Chairman, Seriake Dickson, noted Akpabio’s uncommon leadership as former Governor of Akwa Ibom, while also highlighting the collegial respect shared among Senators despite occasional disagreements.

In his vote of thanks, Senator Abdul Ningi lauded Akpabio for impartiality and inclusivity in the Senate, regardless of political or ethnic differences, thanking him “for being around for Nigeria and for the Principal Officers, managing us all with camaraderie and brotherhood.”