Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered a stirring address during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s presentation of the 2026 Appropriation Bill to the joint session of the National Assembly.
Akpabio emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Executive and Legislature, calling the occasion a “defining national conversation” on Nigeria’s future.
“This is not your first time, Mr. President.
Today, we assemble not just to fulfill a constitutional duty but to engage in shaping our nation’s priorities and responsibilities,” Akpabio said.
He praised President Tinubu’s punctuality and leadership, congratulating him and Vice President on their political journeys rooted in the National Assembly.
Akpabio highlighted the critical role of partnership between government branches, citing historical examples from the United States’ New Deal and post-war Britain’s reconstruction.
“Nations advance when the Executive and Legislature work in concert. Stagnation follows institutional hostilities,” he warned.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing challenges—rising costs, insecurity, and youth unemployment—but expressed confidence in the country’s resilience.
“Nigeria does not retreat in the face of difficulty. We confront it with faith and an unyielding belief that tomorrow can be better than today.”
The Senate President underscored recent legislative achievements, including reforms in security, finance, governance, and electoral processes, which lay the groundwork for national renewal under Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda.
“Prosperity is on the way, but progress must translate into real improvements for Nigerians,” he noted.
On insecurity, Akpabio solemnly remembered victims of terrorism and pledged the National Assembly’s continued support for enhanced legal and budgetary backing of security agencies.
“We share in the pain of bereaved families and remain committed to confronting insecurity with clarity and compassion.”
He urged Nigerians to support the administration’s efforts, urging unity and sacrifice. Quoting a local proverb, he likened nation-building to planting a baobab tree:
“No one plants it for themselves, and no single generation enjoys its full shade, but it is planted for the future.”
Akpabio concluded with optimism, affirming the National Assembly’s readiness to work closely with the Executive.
“We share the pains of the past year and the joys of the future. We are ready to receive the 2026 budget and to work with you to ensure every naira serves the people who earn it.”
The address set a tone of partnership, shared responsibility, and hope as Nigeria embarks on its next fiscal year under President Tinubu’s leadership.
