The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has commended lawmakers for their diligence during the 2025 budget defence sessions, highlighting their essential role in shaping a viable financial plan for the country.
Speaking at the Senate’s resumption on Tuesday following a two-week recess, Akpabio acknowledged the lawmakers’ efforts in scrutinizing the budget proposals to ensure fiscal responsibility.
In addition to budget matters, the Senate implemented a minor reshuffle, appointing new chairmen and deputy chairmen to oversee recently established development commissions across various regions. The appointments follow President Bola Tinubu’s approval of bills creating these commissions.
According to Akpabio, Senator Babangida Hussaini and Senator Muntari Dandutse will lead the Senate Committee on the North West Development Commission as Chairman and Deputy Chairman, respectively. Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Senator Kenneth Eze have been appointed to head the South East Development Commission, while Senator Titus Zam and Senator Isa Jibrin will oversee the North Central Development Commission.
The Senate also made adjustments to some standing committees. Abdul Ningi transitioned from the Population Committee to chair the Senate Committee on FERMA. Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, formerly leading the Local Content Committee, now heads the Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations.
Other key changes include:
• Senator Garba Maidoki – Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports Development
• Joel Thomas – Chairman, Senate Committee on Local Content
• Victor Umeh – Chairman, Senate Committee on National Population and NIMC (formerly led the Diaspora Committee)
During the session, the Senate extended condolences to the Speaker of the House of Representatives following the passing of former Deputy Majority Whip, Oriyomi Onanuga, on January 15. Lawmakers observed a minute of silence in her honour before adjourning plenary.
The Senate is expected to reconvene soon to continue deliberations on key national issues.
