Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Saturday described himself as the most ranked Christian in government, attributing his political ascent to “the special grace of God” and urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in serving God regardless of their status.
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 top clerics and political figures.
His statements were contained in a release by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom.
The Senate President reflected on his rise from humble beginnings to become the nation’s third-ranking official, seeing it as evidence of divine 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.
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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 encouraged Nigerians to stay committed to church service, emphasizing that even the smallest contributions are spiritually significant.
“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 revealed plans to establish 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 ceremony, Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev John Ayah, praised Akpabio and his wife, Dr Unoma Akpabio, for their support to the church, including hosting Catholic bishops nationwide in Ikot Ekpene last September. The Bishop advised the Senate President to disregard detractors, saying:
“You are important and that is why they talk about you. It is expected because of your position in today’s Nigeria.”
Akpabio’s remarks come amid renewed attention on Senate unity, following reports of alleged leadership plots. Two weeks ago, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele dismissed claims of attempts to impeach Akpabio, describing them as “unfounded” and likely to create unnecessary tension.
The comments followed revelations by former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, that past efforts by some lawmakers to remove Akpabio had failed after key senators intervened to preserve stability. During plenary, Bamidele reiterated that there is no plan—past or present—to oust the Senate President, urging senators to prioritise legislative cohesion over political scheming.