The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on Nigerians to actively engage their elected representatives and hold them accountable, stressing that democracy thrives when citizens participate meaningfully in the legislative process.
Akpabio made the appeal on Tuesday, March 10, during his address at the resumption of plenary in the Nigerian Senate following a brief adjournment that allowed various committees to carry out legislative assignments.
Addressing lawmakers, the Senate President described the upper legislative chamber as a “workshop of solutions” rather than merely a platform for political debate, noting that its primary responsibility is to develop practical responses to the nation’s challenges through policy and legislation.
“The Senate is not merely a theatre of debate; it is a workshop of solution,s where social media magnifies the noise of the moment, the Senate addresses the substance of the problem. Where the digital arena stirs emotion, the legislative process pursues resolution,” he said.
Akpabio urged citizens across the country to channel their concerns through their elected representatives, noting that the system of representation is designed to transform public grievances into concrete legislative action.
“I encourage Nigerians everywhere: engage your representatives. Bring your concerns to those whom you have entrusted with the responsibility of speaking on your behalf. It is through the instrument of representation that grievances are transformed into policy and concerns into action,” he stated.
Reflecting on the role of lawmakers, the former Akwa Ibom State governor said representation remains the core of democratic governance and should be viewed as a living pact between the people and those elected to serve them.
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“We assemble once again in this Senate after our brief adjournment, which enabled our committees to carry out important legislative work,” he said, adding that, “Yet we do so with the full knowledge that while legislatures may adjourn, the life of a nation never pauses.”
He also acknowledged the growing influence of social media in shaping public opinion but emphasised that formal legislative processes remain crucial in translating public sentiment into effective policy decisions.
Akpabio further drew attention to the importance of the national budget currently before the National Assembly of Nigeria, describing it as a central instrument for shaping the country’s development priorities.
“Among the pressing matters before this chamber stands the national budget — that great ledger of national purpose in which the hopes of millions are translated into the language of public policy,” he said. “A budget is more than figures on paper. It is a declaration of national intention.”
His remarks come as the National Assembly resumes legislative activities, including deliberations on the 2026 Appropriation Bill, proposed constitutional amendments, and other policy reforms expected to influence the country’s governance trajectory.
Highlighting Nigeria’s current socio-economic challenges, Akpabio urged lawmakers to remain committed to policies that strengthen institutions, expand opportunities, and improve the welfare of citizens.
“Nigeria stands today at a moment that calls for clarity of purpose and steadfastness of spirit. The challenges before us are real, but great nations are built by those who confront difficulty with courage and determination,” he said.
He concluded by urging senators to prioritise national interest above partisan divisions as legislative deliberations resume.
“Let us debate with vigour but act with wisdom. Let us differ in opinion but remain united in our duty to the Republic.
“For above all our political differences stands a higher obligation — the obligation to serve Nigeria faithfully and secure for our people a future worthy of their sacrifice and hope.”