•Senate focuses on electoral reforms • As Akpabio urges lawmakers to approach consideration of 2025 budget with patriotism, diligence
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has said the critical task before the National Assembly on resumption is the completion of electoral reforms, given the preparations for next electoral cycle.
In an address titled: “Rising to the greatness of our calling” to welcome his colleagues from the yuletide and New Year break Akpabio said lawmakers had a unique opportunity to strengthen the nation’s democracy.
He also urged them to approach consideration of the 2025 national budget with usual patriotism and diligence.
“Another critical task before us is the completion of electoral reforms, as the nation begins preparations for the next electoral cycle. We have a unique opportunity to strengthen our democracy.
“Electoral reform is not just a legislative duty, it is a moral imperative, it is our chance to gift the Nigerian people a system that is transparent, credible and reflective of their will.
“Let us not waver in this responsibility, for the foundation of every thriving democracy is trust in its electoral processes.
“Distinguished colleagues, as leaders and representatives of the people, we must remain steadfast in our prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“Our country faces numerous challenges, but we must never underestimate the power of collective intercession, pray for wisdom, peace, and divine intervention to guide our leaders and unite our people.
“This moment is significant, we are at the end of the first quarter of the 21st century, a time that demands bold action and visionary leadership.
“History is calling on us to make a difference to write a new narrative for our nation, one of progress, justice, and boundless possibilities.
“Distinguished senators, let us rise to this challenge, let us be relentless in our pursuit of excellence, fearless in the face of obstacles, and unwavering in our love for Nigeria.
“Our work here is not just about legislation, it is about shaping the future of a nation and leaving a legacy for generations to come.
“As we forge ahead, let these words resonate in our hearts, Nigeria is counting on us. The time to act is now. Let us unite in purpose, strive for the common good, and dedicate ourselves wholly to the task of nation building.”
Akpabio urged lawmakers to approach consideration of the 2025 national budget with usual patriotism and diligence.
According to him, the budget is not just a financial document but a blueprint of aspirations and hopes of millions of Nigerians.
”We must ensure that every item within it reflects the collective dreams of our people and serves as a catalyst for development, equity, and justice,” he said.
“As we embark on this new legislative year, I urge us all to accommodate in our New Year resolutions a renewed commitment to the service of our great nation, Nigeria.
“Let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to the task of fixing Nigeria—transforming it into the country of our dreams, the pride of Africa, and a beacon of hope for the world.
“As we return to our legislative duties, we are immediately faced with a matter of utmost importance: the consideration of the national budget.
“I have no doubt that, as always, we will approach this with our usual patriotic fervor and meticulous diligence.
“This is not just a financial document; it is the blueprint of the aspirations and hopes of millions of Nigerians.
“We must ensure that every item within it reflects the collective dreams of our people and serves as a catalyst for development, equity, and justice.”
Meanwhile, the Senate has shut down plenary for the next two weeks to allow lawmakers focus on 2025 budget defence sessions with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government.
The report on the budget proposal is expected to be laid when the Senate resumes on the 28.
The Sun Nigeria
