Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described President Bola Tinubu’s 2025 Appropriation Bill as a critical framework for national transformation, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Speaking during Tinubu’s budget presentation to a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, Akpabio commended the President’s leadership amid challenging times, highlighting bold reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and tax restructuring.

“These reforms are a transformative shift in Nigeria’s fiscal landscape, rejuvenating small and medium enterprises, fostering a competitive business environment, and bolstering revenues for sustainable development,” Akpabio said.

The Senate President praised Tinubu’s administration for achievements including doubling government revenues to NGN18.32 trillion, reducing debt servicing from 97% to 68%, and increasing oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day. He also lauded social welfare initiatives like the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) programme and infrastructure development projects connecting communities and driving economic growth.

On security, Akpabio celebrated the liberation of communities from terrorist threats and the neutralization of over 11,000 insurgents, crediting the government’s efforts for fostering safety and stability.

Calling for unity, Akpabio urged ministers and agency heads to respect legislative oversight while emphasizing the importance of Executive-Legislative collaboration in addressing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.

Acknowledging citizens’ struggles, Akpabio likened the hardship to “the pains of childbirth,” assuring that brighter days lie ahead. “Together, we will build a Nigeria we can all be proud of,” he said.

The session concluded with Tinubu formally presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill, reaffirming a shared commitment between the Executive and Legislature to Nigeria’s prosperity and unity.