10th Senate Passed 96 of 844 Introduced Bills, Adopted 18 Petitions in Two Years, Narrates Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday revealed that the 10th Senate has passed 96 out of 844 bills introduced since its inauguration in June 2023. He also stated that the upper legislative chamber has adopted 18 public petitions during the same period.

Akpabio made the disclosure while addressing lawmakers during a special plenary session held to mark the second anniversary of the 10th National Assembly.

According to him, the figures represent the Senate’s steady progress in discharging its constitutional responsibilities of lawmaking, oversight, and representation.

“Today, as we mark the second anniversary of the 10th Senate, I am pleased to report that 96 bills have been successfully passed out of 844 introduced since inception. We have also adopted 18 public petitions brought forward by citizens and groups across the country,” Akpabio said.

He noted that the legislative process is thorough and deliberate, emphasizing that the passage of laws require in-depth scrutiny, consultation, and sometimes bipartisan consensus.

He added that the Senate remains committed to quality legislation that addresses the country’s pressing needs.

While listing key areas of focus over the past two years, Akpabio highlighted national security, economic reforms, education, healthcare, and constitutional amendments as legislative priorities.

He assured that the Senate would intensify efforts to pass more bills in the coming legislative sessions, especially those critical to national development.

He further stated that the adoption of 18 public petitions is evidence of the Senate’s responsiveness to the voices of Nigerians, noting that many of the petitions addressed grievances related to employment disputes, land matters, pensions, and alleged misconduct by public institutions.

“These petitions are not mere formalities. They are reflections of people’s lived experiences and a demonstration of the Senate’s responsibility to serve as a check and balance in the democratic system,” Akpabio said.

The Senate President also acknowledged the challenges encountered by the legislature, including delays in committee reports and legislative bottlenecks.

However, he called for renewed commitment from lawmakers and urged them to work collectively in the interest of the Nigerian people.

He emphasized the importance of prioritizing bills that would positively impact citizens’ lives and contribute to good governance.

Analysts have described the passage of 96 bills out of 844 as modest, urging the Senate to increase efficiency and improve prioritization of critical legislation. Civil society groups have also called for the acceleration of pending bills, especially those relating to anti-corruption, electoral reform, and social welfare.

As the 10th Senate begins its third year, public expectations remain high, with many Nigerians hopeful for increased legislative productivity and reforms that will address the nation’s challenges.

Akpabio concluded his remarks with a call for unity, patriotism, and service among senators, reiterating that the upper chamber would continue to serve as a pillar of democracy and a catalyst for national progress.