Senate Will Remain Accountable, Responsive to Nigerians – Akpabio

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured Nigerians that the 10th Senate will remain accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people as the National Assembly resumed plenary on Tuesday after a 10-week recess.

Delivering his welcome address at the Senate chamber in Abuja, Akpabio charged lawmakers to rededicate themselves to effective service and uphold the trust reposed in them by Nigerians.

“To the citizens of Nigeria, we hear you. You asked us not for excuses, but for results. We will remain accountable and responsive,” Akpabio declared.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining discipline and integrity within the legislature, warning that any attempt to undermine the institution would threaten the foundation of democracy.

“Those who seek to weaken the legislature seek to delete the structure of democracy itself,” he cautioned.

The Senate President described governance as a sacred duty of trust, urging his colleagues to prioritize competence and merit over popularity in leadership selection.

“If our politics must remain, let us choose the right men for the service of our nation — not the loudest voices or those who seek office as an ornament, but those worthy of the people’s trust,” he added.

Akpabio also called for swift action to address the flooding disasters affecting parts of the country, assuring victims that the 10th Senate will support measures to mitigate their plight.

On the economic front, the Senate President noted steady improvements in Nigeria’s oil production and credited the Tinubu administration for stabilizing state finances.

“Today, no state governor is borrowing to pay salaries,” he said, urging lawmakers to promote fiscal discipline and prudent governance.

Tuesday’s plenary also saw the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central, who resumed duties after a six-month suspension.

In a show of solidarity with global causes, some senators attended the session dressed in Palestinian colours, advocating for a free Palestine.

The Senate and House of Representatives had embarked on their annual recess in July, a legislative tradition that allows members to balance national duties with constituency engagements.

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