The President of the Senate, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, has acknowledged that Nigeria faces a multitude of challenges that require lawmakers to close ranks in finding urgent solutions.
He said the challenges ranged from economic recovery, healthcare reform, national security to social justice.
Akpabio made the call in an address to welcome Senators back to Abuja after their Christmas and New Year break on Tuesday.
It was titled, “A Reflection Point in Legislation.”
He added that working together as one body devoid of partisanship would help engender the spirit of nation-building in collaboration with President Bola Tinubu.
The Senate President stated, “In the coming months, we will face a multitude of challenges, from economic recovery and healthcare reform to national security and social justice.
“It is imperative that we approach these issues with a spirit of collaboration and a commitment to finding common ground. Let us rise above partisan divides and work together, transcending party lines, for the greater good of our nation.
“Our patriotism demands that we heed no other call except Nigeria’s call—the call echoed in our National Anthem. Let us continue to work and collaborate with the Executive Arm under His Excellency President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, without compromising our independence as enshrined in our constitution.
“I urge each and every one of us to embrace the power of dialogue and the importance of compromise. Let us listen to one another with open hearts and open minds, guided by reason and evidence in our decision-making. Let us be champions for the marginalized and the voiceless, advocates of justice and equality.
“Our purpose should be twofold: to do as much good as we can to all the people we can, and to prevent any injustices from befalling anyone in our great nation, for injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
He further said that Nigerians looked up to the lawmakers as leaders whose decisions and inactions could have far-reaching implications on their livelihood.
Akpabio noted, “As we embark on this new legislative session, let us be inspired by the limitless potential of what we can achieve together. Let us remember that the work we do here has the power to transform lives, uplift communities, and shape the destiny of our great nation and the fortunes of our continent.
“We must be bold in our vision, unwavering in our commitment, and steadfast in our dedication to the principles of democracy and good governance.
“Once again, I extend my warmest welcome to all of you. Let us embark on this new chapter with a sense of purpose and a determination to make a difference. Together, let us strive for excellence, serve with integrity, and leave a lasting legacy of progress for future generations.”
The Senate had adjourned on December 30 for senators to proceed on a 30-day recess, which terminated on Tuesday, January 30.
However, it adjourned plenary again the same day till February 6.
This was done to allow senators to participate in electioneering for the upcoming by-elections in many states on Saturday.
