President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has reiterated his resolve to use his good offices, in collaboration with the Governor Umo Eno-led administration in Akwa Ibom state, to promote the unity, development and peace of the state.

Akpabio said this while playing host to the governor and members of the National Assembly, across party lines, in his Abuja residence.

The visit was to commemorate Akpabio’s first year in office, having been elected as the number three citizen on June 13, 2023, and the celebration of 25 years of unbroken democracy in Nigeria since 1999.

A statement by Special Assistant on Media to the President of the Senate, Jackson Udom, quoted him as saying he was very happy to receive the governor and his entourage along with Akwa Ibom lawmakers in the 10th National Assembly across party lines.

“It shows that we are one as indigenes of Akwa Ibom state, deliberately working for the unity, peace, and development of our dear state, without any consideration for party differences.

“As a former governor of the state and now the President of the Senate, I am more than committed to working with you and your government in the overall interest of our people. I thank you and your team for this visit and honour,” he said.

Responding, Governor Eno thanked Akpabio for the warm reception, saying: “On this day, June 13, 2023, I was here in this Blue Palour; a year after, I am here again in this same Blue Palour. By this time next year, I will be here to also mark this day, if Jesus Christ tarries.

“We are here today, to celebrate your first year in office as our Senate President and to further re-assure you of the determination and commitment of my administration to collaborate with the Senate under your leadership and the federal government, led by President Bola  Tinubu, in the interest of our people back home and in the Diaspora.”