Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, on Saturday declared that he is “the most ranked Christian in government,” attributing his political ascent to “the special grace of God” and urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in their service to Him, regardless of their societal position.
The PUNCH reported that Akpabio made the remarks during the blessing and official opening of the Regina Coeli Parish Rectory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, an event attended by leading clerics and political figures.
The statement was issued in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom.
Reflecting on his journey from obscurity to becoming the nation’s third-ranking official, Akpabio said,
“As the most ranked Christian in government, God has specially and graciously transformed and prepared me for the task ahead. I belong to all denominations, but I am lucky and happy to be a Catholic. Most people are in the church without knowing the power of the church.
If God can raise me from a nobody to be the President of the Senate and by extension, the number three citizen of this great country, He can do it for us all, just position and prepare yourself for His blessings.”
He encouraged Nigerians to remain committed to church service, emphasizing that even the smallest contributions carry divine significance:
“Anytime you contribute as little as 10 kobo to the construction of a church building project and it is completed and put to use, know that God has accepted your contributions.
“I am always excited to be part of the development of the church because nothing is too big for our God.”
Akpabio also revealed plans to inaugurate a new worship centre within the National Assembly complex in Abuja, saying,“In the next few weeks, I will happily invite Nigerians from all walks of life to join us in commissioning a befitting place of worship for our God.”
During the Uyo ceremony, Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev. John Ayah, praised the Senate President and his wife, Dr. Unoma Akpabio, for their ongoing support to the church, including hosting Catholic bishops nationwide in Ikot Ekpene last September. He also encouraged Akpabio to disregard critics:
“You are important and that is why they talk about you. It is expected because of your position in today’s Nigeria.”
Akpabio’s testimony coincides with renewed focus on unity in the Senate, following speculation over leadership tussles.
Two weeks ago, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele dismissed reports of attempts to impeach Akpabio, describing them as “unfounded” and likely to stir unnecessary tension.
Bamidele’s statement followed remarks by former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, who revealed that previous efforts by some lawmakers to remove Akpabio had failed, thanks to intervention by key senators to maintain upper chamber stability.
During plenary, Bamidele reiterated that there is no current or past plan to remove the Senate President, urging colleagues to prioritise legislative cohesion over political scheming.q
