Be bold, press for economic reforms, Akpabio tells NASS members

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on lawmakers to perform their legislative duties with courage and urgency to help stabilise Nigeria’s economy and improve the lives of citizens.

Akpabio made the call in his welcome address at the resumption of plenary on Tuesday in Abuja.

He said that more than 33 million Nigerians are currently facing acute food insecurity, adding that the situation requires quick legislative actions on agriculture, rural infrastructure, irrigation, and mechanisation.

“Hunger cannot be defeated with words; it requires policy, budget and political will,” Akpabio said.

He noted that Nigerians are facing rising living costs, insecurity and unstable power supply, urging lawmakers to work closely with the executive arm to find lasting solutions.

“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,” he said.

The senate president stressed the need for economic reforms to attract investment, broaden the tax base and promote growth.

He also called for stronger education and healthcare systems to give young Nigerians real opportunities to excel.

Akpabio said that the senate would review the 1999 Constitution to strengthen federalism, improve governance and make democracy more inclusive.

He urged lawmakers to exercise their oversight powers responsibly to ensure the prudent use of national resources.

“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,” he said.

Akpabio pledged that the senate would remain open, accountable and responsive to the needs of Nigerians.

“To the citizens of Nigeria, we say this: we hear you and understand your expectations. You ask not for excuses but for results.

“This Senate will not shrink from scrutiny; we welcome it because accountability is the lifeblood of democracy,” he said.

He also urged Nigerians to elect leaders of integrity; competence and genuine commitment to service, stressing that democracy would thrive only when voters chose wisely.

“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,” Akpabio said.

He called on senators to return to their duties with renewed commitment and make the 10th Senate a beacon of hope and national transformation.