By Idongesit Ashameri, Uyo
The return of the Nigerian Senate from its annual recess has put insecurity, flooding and the rising cost of living back at the heart of the National Assembly’s agenda, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio warning that the country’s pressing problems can no longer be treated as routine challenges.
Akpabio, who spoke as senators resumed plenary, said the Senate must remain focused on issues directly affecting the lives and safety of Nigerians, particularly the continued abduction of citizens and the hardships confronting households and businesses.
His remarks came against the backdrop of reported abductions in Marisa and at Dekera Mosque, with the Senate President urging security agencies to intensify operations to secure the release of those still being held and strengthen protection for communities considered vulnerable to attacks.
But security was not the only pressure point highlighted by Akpabio.
He also turned attention to the economic consequences of ongoing reforms, stressing that government policies would ultimately be judged by whether Nigerians could feel meaningful improvements in their everyday lives.
For households struggling with rising expenses and businesses battling increasing operating costs, he said the impact of economic reforms must extend beyond policy documents and become visible in homes, markets and communities.
Flooding was another concern placed before the Senate as lawmakers resumed, adding an environmental and humanitarian dimension to the challenges confronting the country.
Akpabio also looked beyond the immediate national crises to the political season ahead, with the 2027 general elections drawing closer.
He urged politicians to conduct their campaigns peacefully and concentrate on issues, warning that political competition must not become a justification for the loss of lives.
Meanwhile, the Senate received six communications from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu covering appointments, the 2026 budget of the Niger Delta Development Commission and proposed establishment bills.
The communications were subsequently referred to the appropriate Senate committees for consideration.
The chamber also paid tribute to former Kogi State Governor Ibrahim Idris and the late Emir of Gumel, Ahmed Muhammad Sani II, during proceedings marking the Senate’s return from recess.
With the legislature back in session, Akpabio’s opening message effectively placed three immediate concerns — security, economic hardship and flooding — alongside preparations for an increasingly consequential electoral period on the Senate’s agenda.
