The Senate on Tuesday resumed plenary after its annual recess, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio demanding intensified efforts to rescue Nigerians held captive by kidnappers and protect communities facing security threats.

The upper chamber returned to legislative business on September 29, 2026, after suspending plenary on July 23. The National Assembly’s recess was subsequently extended before lawmakers reconvened on Tuesday.

Addressing senators after the resumption, Akpabio said the government and security agencies must step up operations aimed at securing the release of abducted Nigerians and protecting vulnerable communities.

He said the Senate would deploy its legislative, budgetary and oversight responsibilities to address insecurity and other challenges confronting citizens.

Akpabio expressed particular concern over Nigerians being held captive by armed groups, stressing that the government could not respond to their plight with sympathy alone.

The Senate President said citizens were entitled to the attention and full constitutional responsibilities of government, adding that the protection of lives and property remained a fundamental responsibility of the state.

He also said the Senate would scrutinise existing measures and consider additional legislative and budgetary interventions aimed at tackling insecurity, flooding and the rising cost of living.