Akpabio urges action on economic, security challenges

At the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio called for immediate and decisive action to address Nigeria’s worsening economic conditions and rising insecurity.

The resumption is coming at a critical moment as Nigerians continue to grapple with the effects of economic reforms and security challenges, with many looking to the Senate for leadership and solutions.

Akpabio delivered a passionate welcome to mark the end of the Senate’s two-month recess emphasizing the Senate’s responsibility in navigating the country through the difficult times.

Akpabio acknowledged the growing hardship faced by Nigerians due to inflation, high living costs, and increasing security threats, particularly in different regions of the country.

“The economic pressures are testing the very fabric of our society. We are deeply empathetic to the struggles our people are facing,” he said.

The Senate President stressed that it was the duty of lawmakers to respond with compassion and urgency.

While commending President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its strides in agriculture and infrastructure, Akpabio noted that the gains must not overshadow the immediate need to restore security and alleviate the economic burden on citizens.

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“The recent surge in insecurity is a clarion call for us to double our efforts to protect our communities,” he stated.

He pledged the Senate’s support in terms of legislative measures that would provide long-term solutions.

Akpabio also called for stronger collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government, noting that working together would ensure that the benefits of good governance reach all Nigerians.

He urged lawmakers to prioritize the concerns of their constituents, stressing that the Senate was the “first glimmer of hope for the common man.”

Akpabio encouraged lawmakers to maintain their commitment to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of policies aimed at fostering economic stability and enhancing national security.

He called on his colleagues to approach the new legislative session with renewed vigor and purpose, stating that their work would lay the foundation for a more prosperous and secure Nigeria.

In a related development, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Privatization, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu also urged President Tinubu to quickly intervene as the economic hardship in the country has reached a critical stage

Kalu who represents Abia North stated that the economic suffering in the country has hit all Nigerians regardless of social status including himself, forcing them to take painful austerity measures to cope with the challenges.

He noted that urgent measures are needed to ease the pains of Nigerians.