The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has expressed optimism that 2026 will usher in renewed hope and steady national progress, anchored on institutional responsibility, legislative diligence, and collective national resolve.
In his New Year message to Nigerians, Senator Akpabio commended the resilience and civic maturity of citizens despite prevailing socio-economic challenges, while reaffirming the Senate’s commitment to democratic stability, accountability, and national development.
The message, signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, noted that the National Assembly particularly the Senate remained central to sustaining democratic governance through effective lawmaking, representation, and oversight.
“As we enter the year 2026, I extend my warm wishes to Nigerians for a peaceful and fulfilling year. I commend the resilience, patience, and civic maturity of our people, even in challenging times,” the Senate President said.
Akpabio stressed that while the Executive continue the implementation of government policies, the National Assembly will continue to uphold its constitutional responsibilities to ensure that governance outcomes align with the aspirations of Nigerians.
“The Senate and the entire National Assembly will continue to discharge their duties with diligence providing legislative support where necessary, exercising oversight where required, and always acting in the best interest of national unity, economic stability, and social justice,” he stated.
He expressed cautious optimism that ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity, economic pressures, infrastructure deficits, and youth unemployment would yield more tangible results in the coming year, emphasizing that sustainable progress depends on strong institutions rather than individual personalities.
“Our democracy is strengthened when institutions function properly and leaders remain accountable. The National Assembly will continue to work to strengthen these institutions and ensure that public policy is people-centred and forward-looking,” Akpabio said.
As political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Senate President cautioned Nigerians against divisive politics and what he described as “false messianic narratives,” warned that such tendencies often undermine national cohesion.
“History has shown that those who present themselves as sole rescuers often deepen division rather than heal it. Democracy thrives on ideas, responsibility, and respect for national unity not inflammatory rhetoric or deception,” he warned.
He urged political actors to conduct themselves with restraint and a strong sense of national duty, assuring Nigerians that the Senate will continue to uphold democratic norms, parliamentary discipline, and the rule of law.
According to him, the National Assembly remains committed to constructive engagement with the Executive, the Judiciary, and other stakeholders to build a more united, just, and prosperous Nigeria.
The Senate President concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain engaged, vigilant, and hopeful in the year ahead, while supporting democratic institutions and national cohesion.
“On behalf of my family, my constituents, the Senate, and the entire National Assembly, I wish all Nigerians a peaceful celebration and a prosperous 2026,” he said.
