By Nathaniel Zaccheaus, Abuja
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday acknowledged the severe hardship many Nigerians are facing due to the rising cost of living.
He assured that the 10th Senate would prioritise legislative measures to cushion the economic burden and rebuild public confidence in governance.
Speaking at the National Assembly as the Senate reconvened from its 10-week annual recess, Akpabio said the upper chamber would rededicate itself to bold and people-centred reforms that tackle inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and infrastructural decay.
He said, “We are fully aware that the cost of living is weighing heavily on Nigerians. Our people do not look to us for lamentations; they look to us for action. This Senate will act decisively and responsibly to bring relief to our citizens.”
In his welcome address titled “Steady Hands for a Great Nation,” the Senate President reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to openness, accountability, and partnership with the Executive to stabilise the economy, attract investment, and promote inclusive governance.
“Our relationship with the Executive shall remain frank and firm—neither subservient nor confrontational,” Akpabio declared. “Where policies uplift our people, we shall lend our strength; where they imperil them, we shall speak for the nation.”
He described accountability as the lifeblood of democracy, warning that any attempt to weaken the legislature was tantamount to undermining Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
*Pledges Senate’s commitment to addressing nation’s challenges
Akpabio also commiserated with citizens affected by recent flooding and other forms of hardship, pledging that the Senate would support interventions aimed at alleviating their plight.
He further disclosed that the 10th Senate would pursue constitutional amendments to strengthen federalism, enhance efficiency in governance, and ensure public funds are judiciously utilised for national development.
“Let this Senate be remembered as an instrument of national transformation—a citadel of democracy and a beacon of hope,” he charged his colleagues.
Meanwhile, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) officially returned to plenary on Tuesday after serving a six-month suspension. She was accompanied by rights activist Aisha Yesufu and a crowd of supporters who welcomed her reinstatement.
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, for alleged misconduct and breach of the Senate’s sitting order during plenary on February 20. Her return, coinciding with the Senate’s renewed focus on national recovery, drew applause from several colleagues across party lines.
