Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, has revealed that he decided against holding a grand celebration for his 63rd birthday opting instead for a subdued commemoration limited to cutting a cake in his office.
According to Akpabio, the decision was motivated by the current “mood of the nation,” pointing out that many Nigerians are enduring grief and anxiety especially in light of recent mass kidnappings and insecurity. He said he deemed it inappropriate to celebrate in “festive style” when “our children” remain in captivity and citizens continue to suffer nationwide.
At the modest gathering, officials and a handful of senators attended in solidarity. The Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, described Akpabio as a “wonderful man” and emphasized that the restrained celebration demonstrated humility and sensitivity to national pains.
Though some political figures and governors including
Sanwo‑Olu and members of the diaspora marked the occasion with congratulatory messages noting Akpabio’s leadership and service record, the Senate President maintained that national issues must take precedence over personal milestones.
