Senate President Godswill Akpabio has attributed his ascent in public life to what he described as the “special grace of God,” encouraging Nigerians to remain committed to their faith irrespective of their social or political status.
He spoke at the blessing and formal opening of the Regina Coeli Parish Rectory in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State—an event that drew leading clerics, political figures and parishioners. His remarks were shared in a statement issued in Abuja by his media aide, Jackson Udom.
Akpabio, reflecting on his rise from relative obscurity to becoming the nation’s number three citizen, said his experience demonstrated the power of divine favour. He described himself as “the most ranked Christian in government,” adding that his position had further strengthened his understanding of faith.
He said, “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.”
He encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in serving God, noting that even the smallest act of support for religious projects carries spiritual significance.
“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,” he said.
“I am always excited to be part of the development of the church because nothing is too big for our God.”
Akpabio also revealed that a new worship centre within the National Assembly complex would soon be ready for commissioning.
“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, the Catholic Bishop of Uyo, Most Rev. John Ayah, praised the Senate President and his wife, Dr. Unoma Akpabio, for their contributions to the church, including hosting Catholic bishops from across the country in Ikot Ekpene last year. The Bishop encouraged Akpabio to remain focused despite political criticism.
“You are important and that is why they talk about you. It is expected because of your position in today’s Nigeria,” he told him.
Akpabio’s comments come at a time of renewed discussion around unity in the upper chamber. Two weeks earlier, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele dismissed reports of an alleged plot to remove the Senate President, calling the claims baseless and capable of fueling unnecessary tension.
Bamidele’s statement followed comments by former Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, who said past attempts by some lawmakers to unseat Akpabio had been thwarted by senior senators committed to maintaining stability.
During plenary, Bamidele reiterated that no such plan existed—now or in the past—urging senators to focus on strengthening cooperation rather than exploring divisive political manoeuvres.
