Senate demands urgent response to flooding, cost-of-living crisis

The Senate expressed worry over the devastating effects of flooding on communities, farmers, and families throughout Nigeria, urging governments at all levels to enhance disaster preparedness and relief efforts. Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate, addressed the Senate's return to plenary, where he highlighted the growing cost of living and its detrimental impact on Nigerian households.

Akpabio emphasized the importance of early preparation for floods, safeguarding vulnerable communities, and ensuring the timely delivery of relief supplies to those in need. He stressed that a warning should prompt preparation, preparation should lead to protection, and relief should reach the intended recipients. Akpabio warned that the consequences of flooding extend beyond immediate destruction of homes and farmlands, as the loss of agricultural produce could exacerbate food insecurity.

He pointed out that when a farmer loses their harvest, the nation loses valuable food that it cannot afford to spare, and when a family loses their home, the nation bears responsibility for helping that family recover. The Senate President praised agencies and individuals involved in emergency response efforts but urged all levels of government to respond to disasters with faster speed and greater preparedness.

Akpabio highlighted the Senate's commitment to addressing the economic challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians as lawmakers consider economic reforms and policies. He noted that many Nigerians continue to bear a heavy burden of rising living expenses, citing examples such as increasing food costs and the struggles of unemployed graduates.

Akpabio emphasized that the concerns of citizens outside the National Assembly should remain at the forefront of lawmakers' discussions as the Senate resumes its legislative duties.