By Abbanobi-Eku Onyeka
The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has assured Nigerians that the Senate under his leadership will remain committed to open, accountable, and responsive to the people.
Akpabio made this promise in a welcome address to his colleagues upon their return to plenary after a 10-week annual recess.
In his address titled “Steady Hands For a Great Nation,” Akpabio emphasized the importance of accountability in democracy, stating, “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.”
He also warned against attempts to weaken the legislature, emphasizing that such actions would undermine the foundation of democracy itself.
Akpabio highlighted the pressing issues facing the nation, including terrorism, banditry, and economic hardship.
He emphasized the need for urgent action to address these challenges and called for a partnership between the legislative and executive arms of government to drive progress.
The Senate President outlined the legislative agenda for the upcoming session, which includes, steadying the economy, attracting investments, broadening the tax base, and promoting growth, strengthening education and healthcare systems to combat ignorance and disease, providing hope and opportunities for Nigerian youths, and revisiting the Constitution to make federalism stronger, governance more efficient, and democracy more inclusive
Akpabio also extended sympathies to citizens affected by flooding and other disasters, assuring them of the Senate’s support and commitment to alleviating their suffering.
