Senate President Godswill Akpabio has pledged that the National Assembly will work closely with the executive to ensure that every naira appropriated in the 2026 budget delivers tangible benefits to Nigerians.
Speaking during the presentation of the 2026 budget to a joint sitting of the National Assembly, Akpabio said legislative oversight would be strengthened to promote prudent spending, accountability and the effective implementation of government policies.
He acknowledged that the reform path adopted by the administration of President Bola Tinubu has been challenging but necessary, noting that the decisions taken were in the long-term national interest despite criticism, scepticism and opposition from various quarters.
According to the Senate President, the impact of the reforms is beginning to reflect in improved government revenues, greater discipline and transparency in public finance management, and increased investments in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, agriculture and human capital.
He added that Nigeria is gradually regaining confidence both locally and internationally.
Akpabio also highlighted the performance of the 10th National Assembly, describing it as one of the most productive in the country’s history.
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He said the Senate, working with the House of Representatives, has passed a record number of bills addressing security, economic reforms, governance, judicial administration, electoral integrity, infrastructure development and social protection.
He noted that critical security sector legislation has been enacted to strengthen coordination among agencies and combat transnational crime, while economic and fiscal reforms have provided statutory backing for subsidy rationalisation, revenue mobilisation and improved accountability in the management of national resources.
The Senate President said governance, judicial and electoral reforms are also being pursued to strengthen democratic institutions, modernise court administration and enhance public confidence in the electoral process.
While commending the progress recorded so far, Akpabio acknowledged that challenges remain, including the rising cost of living, unemployment and persistent insecurity in parts of the country.
He assured that the National Assembly would continue to work with the executive to strengthen legal and budgetary frameworks, support security agencies, and address the root causes of insecurity.
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
