Senate Will Remain Open, Accountable, and Responsive — Akpabio Reassures Nigerians

By Iyojo Ameh

The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has reaffirmed that the 10th Senate under his leadership will continue to uphold the principles of openness, accountability, and responsiveness to the Nigerian people.

Akpabio gave the assurance on Tuesday while welcoming his colleagues back to plenary after a 10-week annual recess.

In his address titled “Steady Hands for a Great Nation,” the Senate President said:
“To the citizens of Nigeria, we say this: we hear you. We know your expectations. You ask not for excuses but for results; not for noise but for substance.

“This Senate will remain open, accountable, and responsive. We will not shrink from scrutiny — indeed, we welcome it, for accountability is the lifeblood of democracy.

“But it must be clearly understood that the foundation of every democracy is its legislature. Those who seek to weaken the legislature, in truth, seek to wreck the substructure of democracy itself.”

Akpabio commiserated with Nigerians affected by floods and other disasters, as well as those grappling with insecurity, hunger, and hardship across the country. He also urged lawmakers to approach the new legislative session with renewed energy and commitment to building a better future for generations to come.

“Our people do not look to us for lamentations; they look to us for action,” he stated. “The banners of terrorism and banditry still threaten the countryside. The cost of living weighs upon families like an iron chain. The flickering of our national grid leaves cities in darkness and commerce in paralysis.

“These trials summon us to service of uncommon urgency — and to partnership with the Executive Arm, that together we may rewrite the story of our nation.”

He called for bold legislative actions and reforms to stabilize the economy, attract investment, broaden the tax base, and stimulate growth. Akpabio also emphasized strengthening education and healthcare systems to empower Nigerian youths with both hope and opportunity.

“We must revisit the Constitution to make our federalism stronger, our governance more efficient, and our democracy more inclusive,” he added.

The Senate President further stressed the importance of vigilant oversight, maintaining independence, and fostering a constructive relationship with the Executive Arm.

“Our relations with the Executive shall remain frank and firm — neither obsequious nor obstructive. Where policies uplift our people, we shall lend our strength; where they imperil them, we shall speak on their behalf,” he affirmed.

Akpabio concluded by urging senators to be steadfast in service and guided by truth and responsibility.

“Let us resume our work with fresh vigour and steadfast resolve. Let us legislate not only for the Nigeria of today but for the generations whose faces we shall never see. Let this Senate be remembered as an instrument of national transformation, a citadel of democracy, and a beacon of hope,” he declared.