The President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has raised a fresh alarm over Nigeria’s escalating food prices and the growing threat of widespread hunger, warning that the situation now constitutes a national emergency requiring urgent, coordinated action across all levels of government and society.

Speaking in his welcome address as the Senate resumed plenary for the 2026 legislative year, Akpabio cautioned that rising food costs and increasing food insecurity pose a grave threat to national stability and citizens’ wellbeing. Akahi News learnt that the Senate President called on lawmakers to place food security at the very centre of national priorities, stressing that delay could deepen hardship for millions of Nigerians.

UN Projection Sparks National Emergency Concerns

Citing a recent projection by the United Nations that up to 35 million Nigerians could face hunger this year, Akpabio described the outlook as deeply troubling and unacceptable for a country endowed with vast human and agricultural resources.

According to him, the worsening cost of food has placed unbearable pressure on households, particularly the most vulnerable, including low-income earners, rural families, and urban poor communities already grappling with inflation and unemployment.

“This sobering reality demands a doubling of effort through legislation, oversight and collaboration to strengthen food security, protect the vulnerable and ensure that no Nigerian is abandoned to despair,” Akpabio said.

Akahi News gathered that the Senate intends to intensify its focus on policies that promote agricultural productivity, stabilise food supply chains, reduce post-harvest losses, and cushion the impact of inflation on ordinary Nigerians. Analysts believe this may translate into stronger legislative backing for agribusiness financing, irrigation projects, rural infrastructure, and improved storage systems.

Observers also note that persistent insecurity in farming communities, high transportation costs, and unstable input prices continue to disrupt food production and distribution nationwide, worsening the burden on consumers.

Senate to Push Stronger Agricultural and Economic Reforms

Akpabio emphasised that addressing hunger must move beyond rhetoric and become a measurable national priority, backed by concrete reforms and consistent oversight.

He noted that lawmakers would work closely with relevant ministries and agencies to ensure that agricultural interventions deliver tangible outcomes rather than remain on paper. According to Akahi News, this renewed legislative focus is expected to strengthen accountability in food-related programmes and encourage smarter allocation of public resources.

Economic experts argue that stabilising food prices could also help tame headline inflation, improve household purchasing power, and reduce social tensions linked to economic hardship. If effectively implemented, these reforms could stimulate rural employment and revive confidence in local food production.

Commends Nigeria–US Military Cooperation Against Terrorism

Beyond food security, the Senate President also commended the sustained military cooperation between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism. He noted that the partnership remained active even during the festive period, reinforcing Nigeria’s broader security architecture.

“We commend the continued military collaboration between Nigeria and the United States in the fight against terrorism,” Akpabio said, adding that such alliances strengthen intelligence sharing, training capacity, and operational efficiency.

Akahi News gathered that security experts view international cooperation as vital in confronting evolving threats posed by insurgency, banditry, and transnational crime. However, analysts also stress the need for stronger domestic reforms, community policing, and improved welfare for security personnel.

Condolences, Captivity Concerns, and Senate Bereavement

Akpabio extended heartfelt condolences to families affected by insecurity across the country, describing the human cost of violence as more than mere statistics.

He also called for sustained prayers and national commitment toward the release of Nigerians still held in captivity, describing their plight as a “national wound” and a moral responsibility that must not be forgotten.

Welcoming senators back from the recess, he urged lawmakers to remain connected to their constituents and draw insight from grassroots realities. However, the resumption of plenary was marked by sorrow following the death of Senator Godiya Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North Senatorial District.

“During the recess, death visited this chamber and took from us one of our own,” Akpabio said, describing the late senator as diligent, humble, and committed to public service. The Senate observed a minute of silence in his honour, while condolences were extended to his family, constituents, and the people of Nasarawa State.

Nigerians Expect Results, Not Promises

Reflecting on developments during the recess, Akpabio acknowledged that Nigerians continue to endure economic hardship, insecurity, and social pressure but remain resilient and hopeful.

He noted that citizens now demand leadership that listens, reforms that work, and governance that delivers real benefits.

“Nigerians have endured, adapted and persevered. They continue to call for leadership that listens and a future that rewards effort, integrity and honest labour,” he said.

Akahi News observes that the coming legislative sessions will test the Senate’s ability to translate these expectations into practical outcomes, especially as food affordability, security, and economic recovery remain top national concerns.

Looking Ahead

As food prices continue to climb and household pressure intensifies, the urgency of Akpabio’s warning resonates strongly across the country. The challenge now lies in transforming legislative commitments into effective policies that protect the vulnerable, stabilise markets, and restore confidence in Nigeria’s food systems.

Stakeholders believe that sustained collaboration between lawmakers, the executive, private sector players, and farming communities will be crucial in averting a deeper crisis. Nigerians will be watching closely to see whether the renewed focus on food security delivers measurable relief in the months ahead.

For more credible updates, policy insights, and national developments, stay connected with Akahi News.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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