Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged lawmakers to remain focused on issues relating to the welfare of Nigerians in their legislative decisions and actions.

“Distinguished senators, I implore you to remain focused on the welfare of the people in your actions and decisions,” Mr Akpabio said at plenary while welcoming lawmakers back from the Sallah break.

“Our success will not be measured by the power we hold or the positions we occupy, but by the impact we make in the lives of those we represent,” he said.

Mr Akpabio said the 10th Senate’s commitment to poverty alleviation went beyond mere duty, adding that it was an obligation the lawmakers held dearly.

The Senate president said that the 10th Senate, in the last year, passed 25 human interest bills.

“We successfully passed twenty-five bills, diligently fulfilled our oversight responsibilities, fostered inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy, and intervened in matters close to the hearts of our fellow countrymen,” the Senate president said.

Mr Akpabio recalled that the upper chamber “swiftly” approved the 2024 appropriation bill, restored the old national anthem, and championed the South-East Development Bill and the Northern Development Bill.

He said the Senate also stood firm in protecting the children and future generations by passing the Death Penalty for Drug Traffickers Bill.

According to him, the National Assembly plans to establish a state-of-the-art medical facility close to lawmakers, assembly staff, and their esteemed guests.

He said the National Assembly had completed and commissioned the National Assembly Library and fostered inter-parliamentary friendship groups within the region and beyond.

Mr Akpabio said Nigeria is grappling with pressing issues that demand immediate attention, and the Senate could not ignore the burning problems that afflict the nation.

“Insecurity, the need for economic growth and diversification, the fight against corruption, and the pursuit of social justice are just a few of the pivotal issues that require our patriotic commitment and collective determination.

“Our mandate is not solely to legislate, but to be the voice of the people, representing their hopes and dreams, and working tirelessly to create a Nigeria that is fair, prosperous, and inclusive,” Mr Akpabio said.

He thanked lawmakers for their dedication to effective representation and unyielding patriotism.

He said that in the face of challenges and responsibilities, the lawmakers had remained steadfast in their mission to serve the Nigerian people.

“You have exemplified the true essence of patriotism, placing the needs of our beloved nation above all else,” the State president said.

(NAN)