Nigerian Senate Begins Two-Month Annual Recess, Resumes September 23

The Nigerian Senate and House of Representatives have commenced their annual two-month recess, with plenary sessions adjourned until September 23, 2025. Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized that the recess affects only plenary sessions, directing all standing and ad hoc committees to continue oversight activities, investigative hearings, and report finalizations during this period. Senators are encouraged to conduct inspections of federal projects, correctional facilities, and other constituency engagements to ensure effective legislative oversight, particularly focusing on the implementation of the 2024 budget that is still running alongside the 2025 budget signed by President Bola Tinubu. The House of Representatives also urged members to use the recess to reconnect with constituents and address local issues, stressing that the break is not a vacation but a chance for strengthened representation. Additionally, the Senate President called on senators to attend the burial of Senator Diket Plang's wife in Jos, Plateau State. The recess aligns with the National Assembly’s legislative calendar and follows a session that included approving significant projects such as a $347 million loan for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and telecom access project.