Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerians to work towards a more peaceful and equitable country in 2026, saying banditry would be defeated in the new year and beyond.
Akpabio also called on Nigerians to set aside their differences, embrace peace, and foster unity within their families, states, and across the country.
In a statement issued by Anietie Ekong, his special assistant on media and communication, Akpabio said Nigeria can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace.
The senate president spoke during a prayer and fasting service organised in honour of his family at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Cathedral of Unity, Ukana Ikot Ntuen, in Essien Udim LGA of Akwa Ibom state.
“I want to wish all Nigerians a very prosperous and peaceful new year. I want to assure all Nigerians that the new year will usher in renewed peace in our country,” Akpabio said.
“For God so loved the world that He sent His only begotten son to be born as a man so as to redeem mankind.
“By the reason of the birth of Jesus Christ, Nigerians will be redeemed from banditry and insurgency in the new year and beyond.”
Akpabio urged Nigerians, irrespective of political affiliations, to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu in the fight against banditry and insurgency.
He said renewed collaboration with international partners would ensure the defeat of the insurgency.
The senate president also highlighted the importance of family unity, describing it as the foundation for peace and collective progress.
Unoma Akpabio, wife of the senate president, encouraged family members to support one another selflessly and live together in love.
She urged them to set aside personal biases in the interest of unity.
Also speaking, Ekan Akpabio, family head of the greater Akpabio family, called on relatives to continue supporting the senate president as an ambassador of the family, Essien Udim LGA, and Akwa Ibom state.
He appealed to family members holding political offices to remain connected to their roots and prioritise the welfare of their relatives.
