ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — Dec. 17, 2025 — Senate President Godswill Akpabio has returned to Nigeria after a brief trip to the United Kingdom, his office confirmed Wednesday.
Akpabio’s visit was described as a short private engagement, though details of the trip were not disclosed. He arrived back in Abuja late Tuesday and is expected to resume legislative duties immediately.
His absence had been noted during recent Senate sessions, with Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau presiding in his stead. Lawmakers say his return comes at a critical time as the National Assembly prepares to deliberate on the 2026 budget framework.
The budget debate is expected to be contentious, with the Federal Government proposing to borrow N17.89 trillion to cover a widening deficit. Akpabio’s leadership will be pivotal in steering discussions on debt sustainability and revenue reforms.
In addition to fiscal matters, the Senate is facing pressure from civil society leaders including Pat Utomi, Femi Falana, and Obiageli Ezekwesili, who have called for legislation mandating the automatic sack of elected officials who defect from their parties. The proposal has sparked debate over accountability and political stability.
Akpabio’s return also coincides with heightened scrutiny of Nigeria’s foreign policy, following the detention of 11 Nigerian soldiers in Burkina Faso after an emergency landing. Lawmakers have urged the government to intensify diplomatic efforts, and the Senate is expected to weigh in on the matter.
Observers say Akpabio’s presence will be crucial in balancing competing priorities: addressing domestic economic challenges while navigating Nigeria’s strained relations with the Confederation of Sahel States.
His office emphasized that the trip was routine and did not affect the functioning of the Senate. “The Senate President is back and ready to continue his responsibilities,” a spokesperson said.
Akpabio himself dismissed speculation about his health, rejecting reports that he had collapsed or been hospitalized in London. “I am fit as a fiddle,” he told reporters, describing the UK visit as a short private engagement and not a medical emergency.
By directly addressing the rumors, Akpabio sought to project stability and continuity in leadership, reassuring both lawmakers and the public that he remains capable of fulfilling his duties.
Political analysts note that Akpabio’s return underscores the importance of continuity in legislative leadership at a time when Nigeria faces both fiscal and diplomatic pressures. His role will be central in shaping parliamentary responses to these challenges.
As the Senate reconvenes, attention will turn to how Akpabio manages debates on borrowing, governance reforms, and regional diplomacy — issues that will define Nigeria’s political landscape heading into 2026.
