Trust is democracy’s invisible currency, says Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, speaking at the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Arusha, Tanzania, emphasized that trust is the "invisible currency" of democracy. He stated that democracy's success cannot be measured solely by elections or economic statistics, but by its impact on the daily lives of Nigerians.

Akpabio highlighted inclusion, trust, and opportunity as the three pillars of a successful democracy that provides tangible benefits to citizens. He argued that trust is not something that can be demanded or legislated, but rather earned through fairness, transparency, and accountability. Akpabio emphasized that Nigeria's diversity necessitates inclusion and that no citizen or community should be excluded from the country's future.

He praised the Nigerian National Assembly for its responsibility in legislation, representation, appropriation, and oversight, and highlighted the administration's efforts to widen participation and expand opportunities for Nigerians through reforms in regional development institutions and tax systems. The Senate President concluded by calling for the renewal of commitment to building parliaments that listen, governments that serve, and institutions that keep faith with their people, urging the creation of a Nigeria where every citizen feels included, heard, and valued.