By Stephen Merit
To address the challenges of insecurity, poverty, agitation for good governance and other issues affecting Nigerians, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has charged lawmakers to work with renewed patriotism and dedication to nationhood.
Addressing his colleagues during resumption of plenary on Tuesday after their long annual recess, the Senate President also stressed the need for unity, cooperation and steadfast commitment to tackling the challenges.
This was even as Akpabio disclosed that “in the coming days and weeks, we will address pressing issues, debate legislations, and strive to find common grounds that will move our nation forward expeditiously.”
He said: “In the face of rising poverty, insecurity, and public agitation for good governance, it is imperative that we set aside personal differences and work together with renewed patriotism and dedication to nationhood.
“The challenges before us require unity, cooperation, and steadfast commitment to addressing the issues that affect the lives of all Nigerian citizens, mindful of the fact that the responsibilities we bear are weighty, and that our decisions impact the lives and livelihoods of countless Nigerian citizens.”
The Senate President further urged the lawmakers to remain resolute in their “determination to surmounting the challenges that has limited our progress and prosperity in the past years.”
“Be mindful that our constituents look to us for leadership and hope, and we must not falter in fulfilling our responsibilities to them”, he said, adding: “I encourage us all to put the interests of our great nation first, by upholding the principles of democracy in all engagements, processes and procedures and working diligently towards a more secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria.”
Akpabio maintained that Nigeria’s challenges could be surmounted while a better country is achievable with the cooperation of the lawmakers.
“I have no doubt that your dedication, wisdom, and integrity will shine through in all your endeavours. Evidently, as with all democratic institutions, there are concerns at various levels of governance, while dissent and differing opinions are integral to our democratic process, I urge us all to focus on the greater good of our nation, anchored on the pursuit of our common good, interests of our constituents and protection of our fledgling democracy,” the Senate President said.
He, however, encouraged them to engage in open and constructive dialogue, cooperation, and a spirit of unity on all matters of national significance, “as it is through such discourse, that we can achieve the best outcomes for all Nigerian citizens.”
“As you go about your official legislative duties, be reminded, that although our opinions may differ, our common purpose is to advance the well-being of our constituents and our nation,” Akpabio added.
