Akpabio urges lawmakers to focus on Nigerians’ welfare

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged lawmakers to remain focused on issues relating to  the welfare of Nigerians in their legislative decisions and actions.

Akpabio made the call on Thursday at plenary, while welcoming lawmakers back from the Sallah break.

“Distinguished senators, I implore you to remain focused on the welfare of the people in your actions and decisions.

“Let us never forget that we are here to serve the Nigerian people, to uplift the lives of the less fortunate, and to create an environment where every citizen can thrive and fulfill their potential.

“Our success will not be measured by the power we hold or the positions we occupy, but by the impact we make in the lives of those we represent,” he said.

Akpabio said that the 10th Senate’s commitment to poverty alleviation went beyond mere duty, adding that it was an obligation the lawmakers held dearly.

He said that the senate members must continue to work tirelessly, to ensure that all policies were designed to provide sustenance for every Nigerian.

The senate president urged the lawmakers to steadfastly support the executive in the efforts to renew the hopes of fellow Nigerians.

He said that the 10th Senate, in the last one year passed 25 human interest bills.

“In the past legislative year, a year filled with significant events, we left an indelible mark on the pages of history with groundbreaking legislation that ignited the Nigerian spirit.

“We successfully passed twenty-five bills, diligently fulfilled our oversight responsibilities; fostered inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy; and intervened in matters close to the hearts of our fellow countrymen.

“With remarkable efficiency, we swiftly approved the 2024 appropriation bill in record time, setting the stage for the timely implementation of the budget.

“We championed the South-East Development Bill and the Northern Development Bill.

“Bridging the gap between our glorious past and our inspiring future, we dug into our history and restored the treasurable old National Anthem in the National Anthem Bill,” Akpabio said.

He said that the senate also stood firm in protecting the children and future generations, by passing the Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers Bill.

According to him, the 10th Senate prioritised the welfare of Nigerian judges by approving the bill to increase their salaries.

He said that naturally, the senate also took legislative actions that not only reshaped the socio-political landscape, but would reverberate through the corridors of time, benefiting the future generations.

Akpabio said that the student loan scheme, a flagship bill that exemplified compassion and patriotism stood as a testament to dedication of lawmakers.

According to him, it is the plan of the National Assembly to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility in close proximity for lawmakers, the Assembly staff, and their esteemed guests.

“This initiative aims to provide functional and effective healthcare for all,” the Senate President said.

He said that the National Assembly had completed and commissioned the National Assembly Library, and fostered inter-parliamentary friendship groups within the region and beyond.

“By promoting our democracy abroad, we not only increased our global presence but also paved the way for Foreign Direct Investment in vital projects within our beloved nation,” Akpabio said.

He said that the 10th Assembly had traversed many obstacles since inauguration, and that there were still many challenges ahead.

According to him, Nigeria is grappling with pressing issues that demand immediate attention, and the Senate could not turn blind eye to the burning problems that afflict nation.

“Insecurity, the need for economic growth and diversification; the fight against corruption; and the pursuit of social justice are just a few of the pivotal issues that require our patriotic commitment and collective determination.

“We must rise above partisan interests and prioritise the common good.

“Our mandate is not solely to legislate, but to be the voice of the people; representing their hopes and dreams; and working tirelessly to create a Nigeria that is fair; prosperous, and inclusive.

“Let us be the beacon of hope and progress that our people yearn for,” he said.

Akpabio expressed his deepest gratitude to the lawmakers for their unflinching dedication to effective representation and unyielding patriotism.

He said that in the face of challenges and responsibilities, the lawmakers had remained steadfast in their mission to serve the Nigerian people.

“You have been the voice of the voiceless, the champions of the marginalised, and the guardians of our shared aspirations.

“Your tireless efforts in the pursuit of justice, progress, and the common good have not gone unnoticed.

“You have exemplified the true essence of patriotism, placing the needs of our beloved nation above all else,” the State President said.