The Nigerian Senate has entered its annual recess, following months of legislative engagements and deliberations on national issues. The break, which officially began on Thursday, will last until September 23, 2025, when plenary sessions are expected to resume.
This development was confirmed during the day’s sitting at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, after a motion moved by the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, was unanimously adopted. In the motion, Bamidele commended lawmakers for their dedication throughout the legislative calendar and called for the deferral of all outstanding items on the Order Paper until the next legislative day.
While addressing the chamber, Senate President Godswill Akpabio explained that the recess aligns with the parliamentary timetable of the 10th National Assembly, which was inaugurated in June 2023. He noted that the break is not only routine but also reflects the legislative calendar observed by both chambers of the National Assembly, including the House of Representatives, which had earlier adjourned.
However, Akpabio was quick to clarify that the recess only suspends plenary sessions and not the broader legislative responsibilities of senators. He urged lawmakers to remain active in their oversight functions, stressing that their constituents still expect accountability and representation even while the chamber is not in session.
“We are stepping away from plenary for the next several weeks, but your legislative duties are not on hold,” Akpabio stated. “Your people did not elect you to sit in Abuja alone — they expect you to be visible, effective, and responsive.”
He directed all Senate committees, particularly those overseeing diaspora affairs, interior matters, and reparations, to make the most of the recess by carrying out inspections and assessments across their areas of oversight. Akpabio specifically encouraged senators to visit federal correctional facilities and ongoing national projects to gather accurate reports on their status.
“This is the right time to visit prisons, evaluate conditions, and follow up on key federal projects in your constituencies. You must come back with your reports ready, because we will dedicate a session to address all submissions once we resume,” he added.
Reinforcing the importance of legislative monitoring, Akpabio described oversight as a core function of lawmakers that ensures accountability in the implementation of government programs and budgets. He stressed that senators are expected to bridge the gap between Abuja and the grassroots by maintaining close contact with citizens during the recess period.
The Senate President concluded his remarks by offering good wishes to all members as they embark on the break. He prayed for their health, safety, and the successful execution of their assignments outside the chamber.
On a solemn note, Akpabio informed the Senate of the death of Professor Janet Plang, the wife of Senator Diket Plang, who represents Plateau Central. He invited senators to gather in Abuja on Friday so they could travel as a delegation to attend her burial in Plateau State. He offered heartfelt condolences to Senator Plang and his family, describing the loss as deeply painful.
Earlier, Senate Leader Bamidele acknowledged the commitment of his colleagues to national duty, thanking them for their contributions during the legislative year. After moving the motion for recess, he proposed that all other agenda items on Thursday’s Order Paper be postponed to a later date after resumption.
With the motion adopted and no further deliberations pending, the Senate officially brought its plenary proceedings to a close, thereby commencing the 2025 legislative recess.
The recess offers lawmakers the opportunity not only for rest, but also to reconnect with their constituencies, conduct field assessments, and prepare for a more impactful second half of the legislative calendar.