Rededicate Yourselves to Fixing Nigeria, Akpabio Urges Senators

•As Senate rejects N8.9billion budget for information ministry

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio has urged his colleagues to rededicate themselves to the task of fixing Nigeria.

He made the appeal yesterday in a welcome address titled: “Rising to The Greatness of Our Calling” which he read at the resumed Plenary after the Christmas and New Year breaks.

The Senate President said, “As we embark on this new legislative year, I urge us all to accommodate in our New Year resolutions a renewed commitment to the service of our great nation, Nigeria.

“Let us resolve to rededicate ourselves to the task of fixing Nigeria—transforming it into the country of our dreams, the pride of Africa, and a beacon of hope for the world.

“As we return to our legislative duties, we are immediately faced with a matter of utmost importance: the consideration of the national budget.

“I have no doubt that, as always, we will approach this with our usual patriotic fervor and meticulous diligence.

“This is not just a financial document; it is the blueprint of the aspirations and hopes of millions of Nigerians.

“We must ensure that every item within it reflects the collective dreams of our people and serves as a catalyst for development, equity, and justice.

“Another critical task before us is the completion of electoral reforms. As the nation begins preparations for the next electoral cycle, we have a unique opportunity to strengthen our democracy.

“Electoral reform is not just a legislative duty; it is a moral imperative. It is our chance to gift the Nigerian people a system that is transparent, credible, and reflective of their will.

“Let us not waver in this responsibility, for the foundation of every thriving democracy is trust in its electoral processes.”

Akpabio also urged his colleagues, as leaders and representatives of the people, to remain steadfast in their prayers for the peace and unity of Nigeria.

His words: “Our country faces numerous challenges, but we must never underestimate the power of collective intercession. Pray for wisdom, peace, and divine intervention to guide our leaders and unite our people.

“This moment is significant. We are at the end of first quarter of the 21st century, a time that demands bold action and visionary leadership.

“History is calling on us to make a difference, to write a new narrative for our nation, one of progress, justice, and boundless possibilities.

“Distinguished Senators, let us rise to this challenge. Let us be relentless in our pursuit of excellence, fearless in the face of obstacles, and unwavering in our love for Nigeria.

“Our work here is not just about legislation; it is about shaping the future of a nation and leaving a legacy for generations to come.

“As we forge ahead, let these words resonate in our hearts: Nigeria is counting on us. The time to act is now. Let us unite in purpose, strive for the common good, and dedicate ourselves wholly to the task of nation-building.”

Meanwhile, the Senate through its Committee on Information and National Orientation, declared Tuesday that the meagre N8.9billion 2025 budget envelope earmarked for the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation was grossly inadequate.

It consequently summoned the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, to appear before it for required consultation on bigger envelope for the information ministry.

Specifically, the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Kenneth Eze (APC Ebonyi Central), announced the decision to reject the proposed 2025 budget for the ministry.

He stated this when the Minister, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, appeared before the committee for defence of 2024 budget and presentation on budgetary proposal for 2025.

Eze stated that the decision to reject the budget was unanimous and had been adopted by all members of the committee.

He said: “Last year, the Minister appeared before the National Assembly and in particular the Senate, and we observed the very insignificant and minimal appropriation for the entire ministry considering the fact and the role that the information sector plays in this country and we are saying we want to drive a transformative agenda of Mr. President.

“We deemed it necessary last year to recommend to the Appropriation Committee that there is every need for the information sector to be well funded and in doing that by the end of the day, we didn’t get the expected result.

“The Ministry appeared before the Committee again and came with the same and even lower appropriation for the information sector and its agencies.

“As the National Assembly and Senate, in particular, and as very responsive lawmakers, we feel it’s not proper and unacceptable for us to legislate on that proposal.

“So, the Senate Committee on Information and National Orientation unanimously resolved that this budget be returned.”

Earlier, the Minister, who was accompanied by the Director Overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ibidapo Okunnu, and heads of agencies under the Ministry, posited that the mandate of the Ministry as a service provider is to project and defend the image of the country, as well as dissemination of information and promotion of national values.

“The year 2024 was pivotal for the Ministry as we rolled out a series of innovative and impactful programmes to enhance public communication, deepen citizens’ engagement, and promote national values”, he said.