The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on his colleagues to rededicate themselves to the task of transforming Nigeria into a prosperous and unified nation.
He made the appeal on Tuesday during his welcome address at the resumed plenary after the Yuletide and New Year break, urging senators to align their New Year resolutions with a renewed commitment to national service.
In his speech, Akpabio emphasized the importance of the Senate’s role in addressing the pressing issues facing the nation.
He highlighted the need for collective efforts to shape a country that reflects the aspirations of its people, calling for the transformation of Nigeria into the pride of Africa and a beacon of hope for the world.
The Senate President also pointed out that the immediate priority before the Senate was the consideration of the national budget. He described the budget as more than just a financial document but as a reflection of the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians. Akpabio urged the Senate to approach the budget with patriotic fervor and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that it serves as a catalyst for national development, equity, and justice.
Another key issue raised by Akpabio was electoral reform. He underscored the importance of strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, particularly in preparation for the next electoral cycle.
He stressed that the Senate must work to ensure a transparent, credible, and trustworthy electoral system.
In addition to legislative duties, Akpabio urged his colleagues to remain steadfast in their prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria, acknowledging the many challenges the country faces. He called for collective intercession, praying for wisdom, peace, and divine intervention to guide Nigeria’s leadership and unite its people.
Akpabio urged the Senate to rise to the challenges ahead and make bold decisions for the nation’s future. He emphasized that their work was not just about legislation but about shaping the future of Nigeria and leaving a lasting legacy.
The Senate President said: “As we embark on this new legislative year, I urge us all to accommodate in our New Year resolutions a renewed commitment to the service of our great nation, Nigeria.
“Let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to the task of fixing Nigeria—transforming it into the country of our dreams, the pride of Africa, and a beacon of hope for the world.
“As we return to our legislative duties, we are immediately faced with a matter of utmost importance: the consideration of the national budget.
“I have no doubt that, as always, we will approach this with our usual patriotic fervour and meticulous diligence.
“This is not just a financial document; it is the blueprint of the aspirations and hopes of millions of Nigerians.
“We must ensure that every item within it reflects the collective dreams of our people and serves as a catalyst for development, equity, and justice.
“Another critical task before us is the completion of electoral reforms. As the nation begins preparations for the next electoral cycle, we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our democracy.
“Electoral reform is not just a legislative duty; it is a moral imperative. It is our chance to gift the Nigerian people a system that is transparent, credible, and reflective of their will.
“Let us not waver in this responsibility, for the foundation of every thriving democracy is trust in its electoral processes.”
Akpabio also urged his colleagues, as leaders and representatives of the people, to remain steadfast in their prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“Our country faces numerous challenges, but we must never underestimate the power of collective intercession. Pray for wisdom, peace, and divine intervention to guide our leaders and unite our people.
“This moment is significant. We are at the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, a time that demands bold action and visionary leadership.
“History is calling on us to make a difference—to write a new narrative for our nation, one of progress, justice, and boundless possibilities.
“Distinguished Senators, let us rise to this challenge. Let us be relentless in our pursuit of excellence, fearless in the face of obstacles, and unwavering in our love for Nigeria.
“Our work here is not just about legislation; it is about shaping the future of a nation and leaving a legacy for generations to come.
“As we forge ahead, let these words resonate in our hearts: Nigeria is counting on us. The time to act is now. Let us unite in purpose, strive for the common good, and dedicate ourselves wholly to the task of nation-building.
“May God bless our efforts, guide our deliberations, and grant us the wisdom to lead aright. May He bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Senate President said. Gu