The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Tuesday urged Nigerians to hold their elected representatives accountable and actively engage lawmakers on issues affecting their communities.

Akpabio said democratic governance thrives when citizens participate meaningfully in the legislative process.

The Senate President stated this while delivering his address at the resumption of plenary in the Nigerian Senate after a brief adjournment that allowed various committees to carry out legislative assignments.

He described the Senate as a “workshop of solutions” rather than a mere arena for political debates, insisting that the upper legislative chamber remains committed to addressing the nation’s challenges through deliberate policy actions.

“The Senate is not merely a theatre of debate; it is a workshop of solutions. Where social media magnifies the noise of the moment, the Senate addresses the substance of the problem,” Akpabio said.

“I therefore encourage Nigerians everywhere: engage your representatives. Bring your concerns to those whom you have entrusted with the responsibility of speaking on your behalf. It is through the instrument of representation that grievances are transformed into policy and concerns into action.”

He emphasised that lawmakers are elected to represent the interests and concerns of the people, noting that representation forms the core of democratic governance.

“We assemble once again in this Senate after our brief adjournment, which enabled our committees to carry out important legislative work. Yet we do so with the full knowledge that while legislatures may adjourn, the life of a nation never pauses,” he said.

Akpabio also acknowledged the growing influence of social media in shaping public discourse, but stressed that legislative processes remain essential for translating public concerns into concrete policy decisions.

The former Akwa Ibom governor further highlighted the importance of the national budget currently before the National Assembly, describing it as a critical policy instrument reflecting the country’s development priorities.

“Among the pressing matters before this chamber stands the national budget — that great ledger of national purpose in which the hopes of millions are translated into the language of public policy,” he said.

“A budget is more than figures on paper. It is a declaration of national intention. It tells our citizens where we choose to invest our energies, what priorities we pursue, and what future we seek to build.”

His remarks come as the National Assembly resumes legislative activities, with key issues including the 2026 Appropriation Bill, constitutional amendments and other policy reforms expected to dominate deliberations.

Reflecting on the country’s challenges, Akpabio urged lawmakers to remain focused on delivering solutions that would strengthen institutions and improve citizens’ lives.

“Nigeria stands today at a moment that calls for clarity of purpose and steadfastness of spirit. The challenges before us are real, but great nations are built by those who confront difficulties with courage and determination,” he said.

He concluded by calling on senators to place national interest above political differences as deliberations resume.

“Let us debate with vigour but act with wisdom. Let us differ in opinion but remain united in our duty to the Republic,” he added.