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Tag: Godswill Akpabio

  • “Periwinkle politics slowing Niger Delta’s development” – Akpabio

    “Periwinkle politics slowing Niger Delta’s development” – Akpabio

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said “periwinkle politics”, resulting in incessant change in the management of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has led to the slow pace of development in the Niger Delta region of the country.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Senator Akpabio said this at the weekend during the grand finale of the 25th anniversary of the NDDC in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, as part of the activities to round off the week-long celebration.

    Akpabio decried the high turnover of the management team of the NDDC, which he said had slowed the pace of development of the oil-rich region.

    He, however, commended the present team led by the Managing Director,  Dr Samuel Ogbuku for adhering to the vision of the founding fathers of the interventionist agency by embarking on projects that have impacted positively on the lives of the people of the region.

    According to Senator Akpabio, the frequent management change created endless cycles where new leaders were removed before finishing projects, leaving thousands of initiatives abandoned and wasting billions meant for development.

    “There were many reasons we have had so much problems in the NDDC. Part of it was leadership tussle. In the Niger Delta region, we have what we call ‘periwinkle politics’.

    “This is politics where everybody bears the same head. Nobody wants to wait for his turn. Everybody feels that he should be there and not the other person,” Akpabio said.

    He added: “So there was always this conspiratorial situation. Each management in the NDDC would conspire against themselves and of course the staff will assist them to quarrel and shortly after they will sack the management. And one of them would become the acting Managing Director”.

    Akpabio recounted how the Commission for over 20 years could not complete its headquarters building until he became the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs and gave a marching order to the Commission to complete the long abandoned project.

    According to Akpabio, the Commission left behind over 14,700 abandoned projects because regime change brought with it new projects.

    He, meanwhile, noted that President Bola Tinubu discovered that the incessant change of management was inimical to the development of the region hence the reason that the Federal Government had found it worthy for the administration of Ogboku to complete its tenure.

    Akpabio commended the stability of the NDDC under the current leadership of Dr Ogbuku, urging that the commission must break away from endless cycles of sabotage and focus on continuity so that development projects can be completed.

    “I salute the present management,” he said.

    The Senate President went on to say the people of the Niger Delta had decided to support Tinubu to continue in office beyond 2027, because of the projects that the administration has brought to the Niger Delta region.

    “In the past the Niger Delta was used as the goose that produced the golden egg with nothing to show for it. Today President Tinubu has set up an Environmental Sciences University in Ogoni land to take care of the environment which had been degraded as a result of oil pollution.

    “He has also set up a Maritime University, signed it into an Act of Parliament in Okerenkoko in Delta State. He has given us several tertiary institutions in Agriculture, Technology and lots of others. So it is not only in terms of appointments but various projects.

    “This is the region that produces the wealth of the nation. We have the right to choose who manages our resources.  So people should not think that anybody can just come and become the President without consultation with the people of the Niger Delta.

    “We the people of the Niger Delta have assessed President Tinubu and have found him fit to continue in office beyond 2027. So let the people who are conspiring against President Tinubu hear this. They did it before and conspired to remove our son, President Goodluck Jonathan.

    “This time around the entire Niger Delta region has decided to speak with one voice. And we are telling the President ‘on your mandate we stand.’ No conspiracy formed against this Government that has recognized the Niger Delta shall prosper,” Akpabio said.

    Speaking in the same vein, former President Jonathan commended President Tinubu for continuing with the present board of the Commission and noted that this will engender sustainable development of the region.

    President Tinubu acknowledged the support of the Niger Delta region and said as the pioneer development Commission, the NDDC remained pivotal to the  region’s economic growth and material well-being of the people.

    The President said his administration’s legacy project, the 750-kilometre Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, will complement the East-West Road and foster trade and connectivity across the region.

    Speaking further at the event, President Tinubu directed the NDDC to prioritise the completion of all abandoned critical projects across the Niger Delta region.

    The event had in attendance former President Goodluck Jonathan, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Administrator of Rivers State, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, lawmakers, traditional rulers, ministers, and key figures from across the Niger Delta.

  • JUST IN: Senator Natasha stripped of committee leadership role

    JUST IN: Senator Natasha stripped of committee leadership role

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has stripped embattled Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of the chairmanship of the committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).

    TheNewsGuru reports that Akpabio during Senate plenary on Thursday revealed that the position has been given to Senator Aniekan Bassey.

    It’s the second time Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan would be losing her chairmanship position.

    She was earlier in the year removed as the chair of the committee on Local Content and reassigned to Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations.

    Akpabio did not state reasons for removing the embattled Kogi central senator, but it was not unconnected to her clash with Akpabio, which earned her a six-month suspension.

    However, Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court, in late June, ordered the Senate to recall, while the judge also ordered Natasha to tender a public apology.

    Justice Nyako held that the six-month suspension slammed on her by the Senate was excessive. She however fined the suspended senator five million naira for contempt of court.

  • ESEME EYIBOH: Senator Akpabio and pastor Umo Eno: The triumph of inclusive leadership in a new Akwa Ibom State

    ESEME EYIBOH: Senator Akpabio and pastor Umo Eno: The triumph of inclusive leadership in a new Akwa Ibom State

    By Hon Eseme Eyiboh

    Since his assumption of office as the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio has proven to be not just a legislative leader, but a bridge-builder with an unwavering commitment to inclusive governance and a consummate knack for transformational leadership.

    His leadership has been marked by deliberate, measured, and consultative style that fosters national unity, encourages bipartisan collaboration, and ensures stable democratic values.

    At a time when the nation grappled with difficult reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and Tax Reform Bills, Akpabio led the Senate with remarkable tact, bricksmanship and diplomacy—engaging in wide consultations and consensus building among Senators across party lines and regional coalitions. This approach not only ensured smooth legislative processes but helped consolidate Nigeria’s democratic gains in a fragile economic climate.

    Akpabio’s inclusive disposition extends beyond the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly. It reverberates across his South-South geo-political zone, and most notably in his home state of Akwa Ibom. Unlike in the past where political rivalry between federal appointees and legislators on one side, and state executives bred friction, Akpabio has chosen the path of statesmanship and reconciliation to polish to fresh glitters, the Akwa Ibom dream rooted in the aspirations of it forbears.

    He has consciously restrained himself from using his exalted office as the President of the Senate and the nation’s third-ranking official to exert undue pressure on the Akwa Ibom state government even when it was led by the opposition. In a political environment where vendetta and marginalization often follow electoral losses, Akpabio disappointed expectations of naysayers with his political maturity. Rather than form a divisive “Abuja Front” to antagonize Governor Umo Eno—who then hailed from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—he extended a hand of brotherhood, choosing dialogue over discord.

    This rare gesture of peace and collaboration culminated in the recent defection of Governor Umo Eno to the All-Progressives Congress (APC)—a development seen by many as a bold and unifying move. The event was celebrated with grandeur at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, drawing unprecedented crowds from across political divides. It symbolized a collective embrace of a new political order rooted in unity, maturity, and development-focused leadership.
    For political watchers, this moment represents a turning point in the political history of Akwa Ibom state—a courageous step towards healing old wounds and building new bridges. More than the symbolism, the alignment now opens greater opportunities for infrastructural advancement, such as the long-desired Ibom Deep Seaport, which for over three decades remained a dream deferred. With the state now strategically aligned with the Federal Government, the realization of this mega project appears not only possible but imminent.
    Moreover, this alignment is poised to deepen the impact of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda, a visionary framework that captures the hopes, urges and the aspirations of Akwa Ibom people. With federal partnership, the Governor now stands on firmer ground to translate this agenda into tangible dividends for his people and succeeded to sow the eternal seed for peace and prosperity for his people.
    At the grand reception, Senator Akpabio aptly described the political realignment as a “historic reunification”—a bold return of Akwa Ibom to the mainstream of national governance and a rebirth of its cherished esteem as a people. It was a moment that placed unity above party lines, and partnership above partisanship—a posture critical for addressing past grievances, conflicts, and socio-political dichotomies.
    The evolving political narrative in Akwa Ibom today is, in every sense, a testament to Senator Akpabio and Pastor Umo Eno’s strategic, inclusive, and mature leadership. As the political leader of the South-South region, Senator Akpabio’s ability to navigate complex interests and calm frayed nerves at local, regional, and national levels is both commendable and exemplary.
    Equally worthy of praise is Governor Umo Eno, who has shown uncommon courage and wisdom in accepting the olive branch extended to him. His willingness to pursue peace and embrace collaboration signals a deep sense of responsibility to the people, and a determination to build an inclusive state where diverse voices can contribute to shared progress and prosperity.
    As this new political chapter unfolds, the people of Akwa Ibom—irrespective of party, ethnic or religious affiliation—are called upon to embrace it with hope and growth. It is a rare opportunity for peace, unity, and sustainable development. In doing so, they honour not just their leaders, but also the higher ideals of democracy, tolerance, and good governance.

    Hon Eseme Eyiboh is the Special Adviser Media/Publicity and Official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate

  • Court shifts judgement in Natasha’s suit against Akpabio

    Court shifts judgement in Natasha’s suit against Akpabio

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has adjourned the judgment, in the suit filed by Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and others, to reverse her suspension until July 4.

    The matter, which was fixed for judgment by Justice Binta Nyako on Friday, could not proceed due to the absence of the judge.

    Justice Nyako had, on May 13, fixed June 27 for the judgment. The judge made this known after Michael Numa, SAN, who appeared for Akpoti-Uduaghan, and lawyers to the defendants identified and adopted their processes in the suit.

    The trial judge, on July 4, will also deliver judgment in the contempt claims filed by Akpabio and the embattled senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly

    She will equally rule on the preliminary objection filed by all the defendants in the suit, including the senate president, challenging the jurisdiction of the court.

    “I want to believe that all processes are in. What I am going to do is to first of all look at the issues of contempt and take a decision on it.

    “Then I will look at the notices of preliminary objection. If they succeed, that is the end of the case and if they don’t, I will look at the originating summons filed by the plaintiff,” the judge had said.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan had, in an ex-parte motion, sued  the clerk of the National Assembly (NASS) and the Senate as 1st and 2nd defendants.

    She also named the President of the Senate, Federal Republic of Nigeria, and Sen. Neda Imasuem, who is the Chairman, Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct as 3rd and 4th defendants respectively.

    The senator had sought an order of interim injunction restraining the Senate’s committee headed by Imasuem from proceeding with the purported investigation against her for alleged misconduct sequel to the events that occurred at the plenary on Feb. 20, pursuant to the referral by the Senate on Feb. 25, pending the hearing and determination of the motion on notice for interlocutory injunction, among others.

    Although an interim order was made by the former judge, Justice Obiora Egwuatu, restraining the defendants from taking any action, the lawmaker was suspended for six months for alleged gross misconduct.

    Justice Egwuatu, who had since recused himself from the case, had, however, vacated the interim order restraining the senate from suspending her after a motion was filed by Akpabio accusing the judge of bias.

  • 2027: Resolve your crisis quickly – Akpabio tells PDP

    2027: Resolve your crisis quickly – Akpabio tells PDP

    The Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu is interested in seeing a vibrant opposition, urging the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to quickly resolve its leadership crises.

    Akpabio stated this in Abuja on Wednesday, during the inauguration of the newly constructed Interchange that linked Wole Soyinka Way (Arterial Road N20) to Murtala Mohammed Expressway in Abuja.

    The senate president, who represented Tinubu at the event, stressed the need for opposition parties, including the Labour Party (LP) to reorganise their parties to play active roles of the oppositions.

    “However, you people got yourselves into this confusion, try and get yourself out of it very quickly because President Bola Tinubu is interested in seeing a vibrant opposition.

    “As a true democrat, we would like to see a very vibrant opposition in the country. It saddens Tinubu when he sees the way the opposition in Nigeria is in disarray,” he said.

    Akpabio disclosed that he received and read a letter a defector from the LP, adding that it was not only PDP that was in disarray.

    “Even the LP is cracked and people who are strong members of the party are angling to rule Nigeria when they cannot put a small political party like that in order,” he said.

    “Sen. Neda Imasuen representing Edo South Senatorial District in the Senate just defected this afternoon from the LP and moved from the left-hand side of the Senate to the right-hand side.

    “I had to do that ritual. I’m not tired. I’m happy to receive them because our doors are open in the All Progressive Congress (APC).

    “So, congratulations to Imasuen, who has decided to leave the fractured LP to join the APC,” Akpabio said.

    Earlier, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, faulted the PDP’s directive that the party’s National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu should resume duty.

    Recall the acting National Chairman of the party, Umar Damagum, in a news conference announced the reinstatement of Anyanwu as its national secretary.

    Wike, who faulted the directive, argued that Anyanwu had been doing his work, stressing that it was wrong for the party chairman to ask him to resume.

    “The National Secretary has been working and will continue to work. He doesn’t require anybody to direct him to resume work,” he said.

    The minister, who attributed the development to ignorance of the law, said that he would not be a party to those who shoot themselves on the foot.

  • ESEME EYIBOH: The 10th Senate: Two Years of Purposeful Leadership and Legislative Milestones

    ESEME EYIBOH: The 10th Senate: Two Years of Purposeful Leadership and Legislative Milestones

    By Hon Eseme Eyiboh

    As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democracy and commemorates the second anniversary of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, it is timely to reflect on the pivotal role played by the 10th Senate under the leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio. In two years, the Red Chamber has emerged as a beacon of legislative activism, fostering good governance through robust lawmaking, strategic oversight, and statesmanlike diplomacy.

    From the beginning, the 10th Senate has exhibited uncommon legislative energy. With 844 bills introduced, 96 passed, and 52 assented to by the President, the upper legislative chamber has shown a commitment to addressing critical national issues. The laws span a wide spectrum—education reform, tax modernization, regional development, and enhanced local government autonomy—each crafted to deepen Nigeria’s democratic and developmental trajectory.

    Among the key proposals still under deliberation is the Constitutional Amendment Bill, a potentially historic legislation seeking a single six-year presidential term, transition to a parliamentary system, and increased representation for women in governance. Other notable bills include the Police Act Amendment Bill, the National Ranchers Commission Bill, the NIMC Act Repeal Bill, and those advocating for Diaspora Voting and Special Legislative Seats for Women—all reflecting a Senate attuned to the evolving aspirations of Nigerians.

    In a significant effort to overhaul Nigeria’s tax administration, the Senate adopted the harmonized version of the Tax Reform Bills proposed by President Tinubu. The Bills include the Joint Revenue Board ( Establishment) Bill, 2025, Nigeria Revenue Service ( Establishment ) Bill, 2025, Nigerian Tax Administration Bill, 2025, and Nigerian Tax Bill, 2025. The Bills, which are ready to be transmitted to the President for assent, will have tremendous impact on the economy by improving government Internally Generated Revenue, IGR. The reforms will also encourage domestic investment, streamline tax collection among the three tiers of government and eliminate double taxation. Additionally, the Law will close loopholes in Nigeria’s tax administration system, reduce tax burden on low income earners and improve their disposable income.

    In all, the tax incentives are expected to promote economic diversification by enhancing investments in key sectors. Senate President Akpabio must be commended for his tact and ingenuity in handling the affairs of the Parliament that doused the initial misgivings in some quarters, including the Lawmakers, when the Bills where sent to the National Assembly. As at today, 17th June, 2025, the assented Bills received are: Federal College of Education, Bende, ( Establishment ) Bill, 2025, Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences , Item Bende, ( Establishment ) Bill, 2025, and Federal University, Okigwe, ( Establishment ) Bill, 2025.

    Beyond lawmaking, Senator Akpabio has advanced a new model of Executive-Legislative engagement—one built on mutual respect rather than blind acquiescence. Under his stewardship, the Senate has secured improved budgetary allocations to the Armed Forces, Police, and intelligence agencies to tackle insecurity. Notably, his deft handling of the fuel subsidy removal crisis—through mediation and wide consultations—helped ease national tension and facilitated legislative buy-in for a tough, yet necessary policy shift.

    Internally, the 10th Senate under Akpabio has matured into a united front. By deliberately allocating committee chairmanships across party lines and prioritizing national unity, he has ushered in an era of legislative harmony, replacing the factional wrangling that plagued past assemblies. This spirit of inclusivity was symbolically underscored when he ordered the restoration of the official portrait of former Senate President Bukola Saraki, a gesture that helped heal political wounds and uphold institutional continuity.

    A landmark achievement of the current Senate is its commitment to restoring fiscal discipline by returning Nigeria to the January–December budget cycle. Senators, often working late nights and public holidays, ensured timely passage of Appropriation Bills. This has enabled early budget implementation, especially for capital projects—a critical boost for economic planning and delivery.
    In the realm of oversight, the Akpabio-led Senate has raised the bar.

    When Nigerians grappled with persistent fuel scarcity, the Senate leadership embarked on a strategic visit to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

    That fact-finding mission not only exposed systemic irregularities in the oil sector but led to a decisive Presidential directive mandating NNPCL to sell crude to the refinery in naira, ultimately helping stabilize fuel prices.
    Perhaps what stands out most in Akpabio’s stewardship is his ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape with bipartisan finesse. Twice in two years, his colleagues have passed a vote of confidence in his leadership—a testament to his inclusive style, strategic acumen, and unwavering focus on national progress.
    As the 10th Senate continues its legislative journey, it remains an indispensable pillar in the realization of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. With Senator Akpabio at the helm, the Senate is not just a lawmaking body, but a dynamic engine for reform, stability, and transformation—working, as always, in the service of the Nigerian people

    Hon.Eseme Eyiboh is the Special Adviser, Media/Publicity and official Spokesperson to the President of the Senate

  • JACKSON UDOM: Akpabio: Diary of a legislative czar in the Red Chamber

    JACKSON UDOM: Akpabio: Diary of a legislative czar in the Red Chamber

    By Jackson Udom

    Exactly two years today, 13th June, 2025, Senator Godswill Akpabio, clocks two years in office as the President of the 10th Senate and Chairman, National Assembly of Nigeria, having contested, won and sworn-in on the 13th of June 2023.

    As the President of the 10th Senate, the Ukana-born lawyer cum politician has in the last 730 days demonstrated exceptional leadership, navigating complex legislative processes with finesse which has no doubt been marked by significant achievements, showcasing his ability to balance competing interests and drive national development.

    Akpabio’s journey as Senate President began with a clear vision for Nigeria’s future. He faced numerous challenges, including resistance from within his party and opposition from other stakeholders. However, his strategic approach and ability to build consensus helped him overcome these obstacles with the stout support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the party leadership.

    Having gotten the overwhelming support of his colleagues to emerge the President of the Senate and the number three citizen of the country, Akpabio swung into action by ensuring that all contending interests and tendencies before his emergence were brought into one united fold.

    The issue of committee chairmanship which had in the past caused early crisis between senators and the leadership was clinically and meticulously handled by Akpabio with an all inclusive allocation of committee heads and their deputies and at the end of the rigorous exercise, both the ruling and oppostion lawmakers, had no reason to want to reinvent the banana peels which hallmarked past Senates

    With the unity among the Senators as encouraged by Akpabio through his all inclusive running of the Senate, lawmakers have no reasons not to give their best in the areas of lawmaking and oversights functions.

    Under the Akpabio leadership, in the period under review, the Senate has passed several landmark bills, including the 2025 national budget. He successfully navigated the contentious issue of fuel subsidy removal, securing legislative backing and explaining the economic rationale behind the policy.

    ECONOMIC REFORMS
    The Akpabio leadership of the Senate, has been instrumental in driving economic reforms, prioritizing critical sectors like infrastructure, education, healthcare, and defense. His emphasis on fiscal responsibility and transparency has improved budget implementation and accountability.

    NATIONAL SECURITY
    The Senate, under Akpabio’s leadership, has approved significant funding increases for the military, police, and intelligence agencies. This demonstrates his commitment to addressing emerging security threats and promoting national stability.

    PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND TRANSPARENCY
    In the last two years on the saddle, Akpabio has prioritized transparency and engagement with the Nigerian people. He has used media relations to address national concerns and clarify the Senate’s position on key issues, building public trust in the legislative process.

    Akpabio’s leadership style can be characterized as inclusive, strategic, and results-driven. He has demonstrated an ability to balance competing interests, build consensus, and drive national development. The Akpabio model offers valuable lessons for future legislative leaders, emphasizing the importance of Strategic planning and vision, Inclusive decision-making and consensus-building, Transparency and accountability, and effective communication and public engagement.

    As Akpabio’s tenure continues, his legacy as a transformative leader will be cemented in the overall interst and benefitsof Nigerians. The Akpabio model provides a framework for future leaders to build upon, promoting good governance and national development in Nigeria.

    Udom, is Special Assistant, Media To The President Of The Senate.

  • Democracy Day: Akpabio pays tribute to Tinubu as architect of Nigerian democracy

    Democracy Day: Akpabio pays tribute to Tinubu as architect of Nigerian democracy

    The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has commended President Bola Tinubu as one of the architects of Nigeria’s democracy and taking courageous decision as the leader of Nigeria.

    Akpabio made the commendation in his remarks at the joint sitting of the House of Representatives and the Senate which was addressed by President Tinubu as part of the activities to mark the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.

    According to Senator Akpabio, the National Assembly is proud to host you, our President, our compatriot, and one of our own, as you fulfil the solemn constitutional duty of addressing the nation.

    “This chamber honours you not merely as the President, but as one of the architects of the very democratic foundation we commemorate today. Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we have seen transformation in his bold approach to difficult reforms.

    “From unifying the foreign exchange market, to local government autonomy, to the formation of the regional development commissions, to Nigerian Education Loan Fund, to removing fuel subsidies, to attracting foreign investments, to tax reforms, this administration has not shied away from the hard decisions required to stabilize and grow our economy.

    “These efforts are gradually restoring investor confidence, laying the foundations for long-term prosperity, and refocusing government expenditure toward productive investments.

    “Mr President we commend you for your boldness, your vision, and your unwavering belief in Nigeria’s future.Likewise, the 10th National Assembly,” he said.

    Akpabio also described Tinubu as a great democrat who suffered personal loses for democracy to thrive in Nigeria. “Many, including Your Excellency, stood tall in those days of darkness. While others chose silence or compromise, you chose courage.

    “At great personal cost, NADECO which you were part of, helped sustain the flame of liberty when it was most at risk of going out. So as we mark this day, let us remember those who bled so we could vote.

    “Those who took risks so we could speak. Those who were buried so that freedom might rise. Let us also pay tribute to all those who played pivotal roles in Nigeria’s democratic transition.This year’s theme—“26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development”—is not a slogan. It is a call to purpose,” he said.

    Akpabio also listed some of the achievements of the NASS, ahead of its second anniversary on June 13. “From its inception, the 10th Senate demonstrated a renewed vigor for addressing the country’s complex challenges through purposeful legislation.

    “This commitment is reflected in its extraordinary output: a total of 844 bills have been introduced within its first two years—an unprecedented figure that underscores the Senate’s proactive posture in tackling pressing national issues.

    “Out of this impressive volume, 107 bills are currently at the committee stage, undergoing the necessary scrutiny and stakeholder engagement that ensures quality legislation, 206 bills are awaiting first reading, reflecting a robust pipeline of legislative ideas prepared for formal introduction, and 409 bills have advanced to second reading.

    “Notably, the Senate has passed 96 bills, a record for any Nigerian Senate at this stage of the legislative cycle. Even more significantly, 52 of these bills have been assented to by the President, translating into enforceable laws that will shape governance, economic development, public welfare, and national security.

    “These bills include the National Education Fund, local government autonomy bill, regional development commissions, tax reforms, universities and tertiary institutions, agricultural institutions etc.

    “Moreover, the Tenth Senate has acted decisively on 26 Executive Bills, showcasing a healthy balance of cooperation and oversight in its engagement with the executive arm.

    “These executive-sponsored legislations address key policy areas and benefit from the Senate’s thorough review and refinement before passage.

    “Beyond bills, the 10th Senate has received a total of 80 petitions from citizens and civil society. This is a testimony to public trust in the institution. Of these, 18 petitions have been fully adopted, providing redress, transparency, and institutional accountability,” he said.

    As part of activities marking Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day celebration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred national honours on dozens of distinguished Nigerians, including posthumous awards for late pro-democracy activists, politicians, journalists, and civil rights leaders.

    The honourees were described by the President as ‘heroes and heroines of democracy.’ Tinubu noted that the awards serve as a tribute to the sacrifices made in the struggle to entrench and sustain democracy in Nigeria.

    The presiding officers of the National Assembly were formally decorated by the President with the award of national honours earlier conferred on them.

  • Democracy Day: Akpabio reels out achievements of 10th Senate

    Democracy Day: Akpabio reels out achievements of 10th Senate

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, says the 10th Senate has passed 96 bills out a total of 844 bills introduced within its first two years.

    He said that the Senate also adopted 18 petitions out of the 80 received.

    Akpabio made this known on Thursday during a joint session of the National Assembly to celebrate 2025 Democracy Day.

    He said that the 10th National Assembly had played its part with diligence and distinction.

    “From its inception, the 10th Senate demonstrated a renewed vigour for addressing the country’s complex challenges through purposeful legislation.

    “This commitment is reflected in its extraordinary output: a total of 844 bills have been introduced within its first two years—an unprecedented figure.

    “This figure underscores the Senate’s proactive posture in tackling pressing national issues.

    “Out of this impressive volume, 107 bills are currently at the committee stage, undergoing the necessary scrutiny and stakeholder engagement that ensures quality legislation.

    “Two hundred and six bills are awaiting first reading, reflecting a robust pipeline of legislative ideas prepared for formal introduction and 409 bills have advanced to second reading.

    “Notably, the Senate has passed 96 bills, a record for any Nigerian Senate at this stage of the legislative cycle.

    “Even more significantly, 52 of these bills have been assented to by the President, translating into enforceable laws that will shape governance, economic development, public welfare, and national security.

    “These bills include the National Education Fund, Local Government Autonomy Bill, Regional Development Commission, Tax Reform, University and Tertiary Institutions, Agricultural Institutions bills etc.”

    Akpabio  said that the upper chamber had acted decisively on 26 Executive bills, showcasing a healthy balance of cooperation and oversight in its engagement with the executive arm.

    “These executive-sponsored legislations address key policy areas and benefit from the Senate’s thorough review and refinement before passage.”

    The senate president said that beyond bills, the 10th Senate had received a total of 80 petitions from citizens and civil society.

    “This is a testimony to public trust in the institution. Of these, 18 petitions have been fully adopted, providing redress, transparency and institutional accountability,” he said.

  • 2nd year anniversary: Akpabio rates Tinubu’s performance

    2nd year anniversary: Akpabio rates Tinubu’s performance

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has commended President Bola Tinubu for restoring the hope of Nigerians for a viable and sustainable nation through transformative and courageous leadership.

    Akpabio stated this in a message through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh on Thursday in Abuja.

    He congratulated President Tinubu on his second year anniversary in Office, saying the president in the last two years has placed Nigeria on a solid developmental pedestal using the Renewed Hope Agenda as his policy thrust.

    He said: “Today, May 29, 2025, marks the second year anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    “On behalf of the Nigerian Senate, the entire National Assembly, my family and constituents, I extend my warmest and profound congratulations to a visionary, courageous and transformative leader, President Bola Tinubu on this milestone.

    “I commend President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, which is gradually revitalising our economy, improving the lives of Nigerians, rekindling hope in our people and building a brighter and prosperous future for our nation.”

    Akpabio further said that Tinubu’s bold initiatives and reforms, particularly in the areas of economic and fiscal policies, demonstrated his undying dedication to transforming Nigeria to its deserving greatness.

    “Your drive and obsession to giving every section of the country a sense of belonging has clearly been demonstrated in the creation of development commissions in all the geopolitical zones. This is unprecedented in the annals of our nationhood.

    “The level of infrastructural development as enunciated in the monumental ongoing projects across the country such as the Lagos- Calabar Coastal High way, the Lagos- Maiduguri are testaments to your leadership signature and development conscious pedigree.

    “The economic reforms are gradually turning Nigeria into the preferred business destination of local and foreign investors; with the Naira making a strong rebound coupled with your ambitious and purposeful fiscal policies.

    “Mr President, your achievements in the area of security are wholesome and commendable. In the last two years, the Nigerian Armed Forces have taken the war against insurgency to the door step of bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements and the results are obvious and positive.

    “No wonder, you have received torrents of endorsements to return to office in 2027 just two years into your first tenure. These endorsements are certainly not a fluke but founded on verifiable performance in good governance and delivery on campaign promises and undiluted national consciousness.”

    “The senate remains committed to collaborating with the Executive arm of government under your able and dynamic leadership to ensure the success of these initiatives.

    “We recognise the challenges that lie ahead and pledge to work together to address them. Mr President, we appreciate your leadership and vision for Nigeria’s growth and development. We look forward to continued partnership and progress in the years ahead”.