Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, boasted on Saturday that he is the most ranked Christian in government.
He attributed his political rise to “the special grace of God,” urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in serving God regardless of their position in life.
Akpabio spoke during the blessing and official opening of the Regina Coeli Parish Rectory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, an event attended by top clerics and political leaders. His remarks were contained in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom.
The Senate President said his journey from obscurity to the nation’s number three position was a testament to God’s favour.
“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 said.
Akpabio urged Nigerians to remain committed to service in the house of God, noting that even the smallest contribution to church projects carries divine reward.
“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,” he added.
The senate president also disclosed plans to unveil a new worship centre within the National Assembly complex in Abuja.
“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,” he announced.
At the Uyo ceremony, the Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev John Ayah, commended the Senate President and his wife, Dr Unoma Akpabio, for their support to the church, including hosting Catholic bishops nationwide in Ikot Ekpene last September.
He also urged Akpabio to ignore detractors.
“You are important and that is why they talk about you. It is expected because of your position in today’s Nigeria,” the Bishop said.
Akpabio’s testimony comes amid renewed attention on Senate unity following claims of attempted leadership plots.
Two weeks ago, Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, dismissed reports of moves to impeach the Akpabio, describing them as “unfounded” and capable of creating unnecessary tension.
Bamidele’s rebuttal followed comments by former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, who disclosed that there had been past but unsuccessful efforts by some lawmakers to unseat Akpabio.
He said such attempts failed after key senators intervened to maintain stability in the upper chamber.
However, during plenary, Bamidele insisted there was no plan—past or present—to remove the Senate President, urging senators to prioritise legislative cohesion over political scheming.
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