By Raliat Adenekan

Senate President Godswill Akpabio today (Tuesday) set the tone for 2026 as the National Assembly resumed plenary, urging lawmakers to treat the year as a “final stretch” focused on completing reforms, strengthening institutions and delivering laws with tangible impact.

In a welcome address after the Christmas and New Year recess, Akpabio said the Tenth Senate must prioritize urgency, value-driven legislation and effective oversight as it approaches the decisive phase of its tenure.

He outlined plans for 2026 centered on reform-driven lawmaking, legacy projects and disciplined budgeting, stressing that the Senate would “hit the ground running” on rigorous budget scrutiny, cooperation with the Executive and laws that unlock growth, secure lives and property of citizens.

Our correspondent, Raliat Adenekan reports that Senator Akpabio warned against legislative clutter, saying the chamber must pass only what Nigeria “truly needs now”.

Reflecting on 2025, the Senate President pointed to the chamber’s steady legislative work amid economic pressure and security challenges, including sustained oversight, support for national security efforts and engagement with international partners in counterterrorism.

Akpabio also acknowledged national challenges that shaped the Senate’s agenda in 2025, including insecurity, humanitarian pressures and warnings over food insecurity.

He called for intensified legislative action to protect vulnerable Nigerians, urged civility as political activities increase, and reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to the safe return of citizens in captivity.

The chamber observed a minute of silence for the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki from Nasarawa stare, whom Akpabio described as a diligent public servant.

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