Senate President Calls for Urgent Legislative Action as Inflation and Insecurity Deepen Crisis
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has acknowledged that Nigerians are enduring severe economic and security challenges, warning that the country’s current hardships are “stretching the patience and resilience” of its people. Akpabio made this statement on May 6, 2025, as lawmakers resumed plenary in Abuja after recess.
Rising Cost of Living, Unemployment, and Insecurity
Akpabio told senators that inflation, rising food and energy costs, and persistent insecurity are putting intense pressure on households nationwide. He cited ongoing violence in the South-East and North-West, as well as unresolved issues of environmental equity in the South-South, as key concerns.
“Much has transpired in our dear country while we were away. Our economy continues to stretch the patience and resilience of our people,” Akpabio said. “The rising cost of living, the instability in the energy sector, and the persisting insecurity in parts of the nation-all these demand not just attention but legislative action.”
Economic Data Paints Bleak Picture
Recent figures show inflation nearing 40% by late 2024, with food prices doubling or tripling and the poverty rate rising from 33% in 2020 to 47% in 2024. Experts warn that an additional 13 million Nigerians could fall into poverty this year. While official unemployment rates have dropped, most jobs are in the informal sector, offering little security or benefits. Foreign investment has also declined, hampered by insecurity and macroeconomic instability.
Senate’s Response and Call for Unity
Akpabio urged his colleagues to act beyond partisan politics and focus on urgent, practical solutions. He reminded senators that Nigerians expect integrity, patriotism, and effective oversight from their representatives.
“Let every vote we cast, every motion we raise, and every oversight we conduct bear the fingerprints of integrity and patriotism,” he said.
Legislative Priorities
The Senate President promised that lawmakers would prioritize bills and oversight aimed at reducing inflation, stabilizing the economy, and addressing insecurity. He reaffirmed the Senate’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration in tackling Nigeria’s most pressing challenges.
Outlook
Despite some efforts to stabilize the naira and boost growth, analysts say structural issues-such as food supply constraints, high transport costs, and insecurity-mean hardship will likely persist in the short term. Akpabio’s remarks reflect growing public pressure for fast, effective action from Nigeria’s leaders
