Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on his fellow senators to prioritize Nigeria’s interests in their legislative activities. He made this appeal during the resumption of plenary after a six-week recess, which was followed by an extended closed-door session.
Akpabio emphasized the importance of upholding democratic principles in all legislative engagements and processes. He urged his colleagues to work diligently towards a more secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria, emphasizing that together, they could overcome the nation’s challenges and realize the vision of a better Nigeria.
In his opening address, Akpabio extended an olive branch to any aggrieved lawmakers, encouraging them to set aside their differences and cooperate with his leadership. This gesture comes amidst media reports suggesting a plot to impeach him as Senate President.
Akpabio urged senators to engage in open and constructive dialogue, cooperate with one another, and foster unity on matters of national significance. He reminded them that their common purpose was to advance the well-being of their constituents and the nation as a whole.
He expressed confidence in the dedication, wisdom, and integrity of his colleagues, emphasizing that they would address pressing issues, debate legislation, and seek common ground to move the nation forward expeditiously.
Recognizing the challenges facing Nigeria, including poverty, insecurity, and public demands for good governance, Akpabio called on senators to put aside personal differences and work together with renewed patriotism and dedication to nationhood. He stressed that unity, cooperation, and steadfast commitment were essential to addressing the issues affecting the lives of Nigerian citizens.
Akpabio emphasized that the progress Nigeria deserved could only be achieved through unity and called on all senators to commit their efforts to the advancement of the country. He reminded them that their constituents looked up to them for leadership and hope, and they must not falter in fulfilling their responsibilities.
Meanwhile, the plenary’s top agenda includes the screening and confirmation of Dr. Olayemi Cardoso’s nomination for the position of Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Cardoso assumed office as the acting CBN governor following his nomination by President Bola Tinubu.
The Senate also planned to screen and confirm four new deputy governors: Emem Nnana Usoro, Muhammad Sani Abdullahi Dattijo, Philip Ikeazor, and Bala M. Bello. As of the latest update, the Senate was still in a closed-door session, which had lasted approximately two hours after the resumption of plenary.