Senate moves to phase out petrol cars, advances electric vehicle bill.

The Nigerian Senate has moved closer to adopting clean energy transportation after a bill seeking to phase out petrol-powered cars and promote electric vehicles (EVs) scaled second reading on Tuesday.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, aims to provide the legal and policy framework for Nigeria’s transition from fossil fuel dependence to electric mobility. Kalu explained that the bill would help reduce carbon emissions, encourage local vehicle production, and align the country with global efforts toward sustainable transport.

According to him, the transport sector contributes between 20 and 30 percent of Nigeria’s greenhouse gas emissions. “This bill seeks to establish a comprehensive legal and institutional framework to guide Nigeria’s gradual move from petrol-powered vehicles to cleaner, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly alternatives,” he said.

The bill also proposes creating a National Electric Vehicle Development and Promotion Council to coordinate policy implementation at all levels of government.

In support of the proposal, Senator Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) described it as timely, noting that countries like Kenya and South Africa are already progressing in electric mobility. He said adopting EVs would reduce emissions in cities such as Lagos and Kano, improve public health, and create new jobs.

Senator Osita Ngwu (Enugu West) added that Nigeria’s population gives it a critical role in global climate action, while Senator Titus Zam (Benue North-West) highlighted the environmental and health gains of the transition.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended the initiative, calling it a “very good innovation,” and expressed confidence in its potential impact. The bill has been forwarded to the Senate Committee on Industries for further consideration, with a report expected in four weeks.

Tinubu Seeks Approval for Fresh N1.15trn Domestic Loan Despite Rising Debts.

President Bola Tinubu has requested the National Assembly’s approval to borrow a fresh N1.15 trillion from the domestic debt market to help fund the deficit in the 2025 budget.

The request was conveyed in a letter read on the floor of the Senate during plenary on Tuesday.

According to the letter, the proposed borrowing aims to bridge the funding gap and ensure the full implementation of government programmes and projects under the 2025 fiscal plan.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has referred the request to the Senate Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, instructing it to report back within one week for further legislative action.

President tinubu requests senate approval for new ₦1.15trn domestic loan to bridge 2025 budget gap.

President Bola Tinubu has requested the National Assembly’s approval for a fresh ₦1.15 trillion domestic loan to bridge the deficit in the 2025 national budget. The request, contained in a letter read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during Tuesday’s plenary, is part of measures to sustain key government programmes and projects.

Tinubu explained that the loan would ensure smooth implementation of the 2025 budget and compliance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 and relevant executive orders requiring legislative approval for new borrowings. The Senate referred the proposal to the Committee on Local and Foreign Debt, which has one week to submit its report.

The latest borrowing plan comes just days after the Senate approved Tinubu’s request for a $2.847 billion external loan, including a $500 million debut Sovereign Sukuk, aimed at funding the budget deficit and refinancing maturing Eurobonds.

Earlier in May, Tinubu sought approval for a $21.5 billion external loan for infrastructure, health, education, and water projects, as well as a ₦758 billion domestic bond to clear outstanding pension arrears under the Contributory Pension Scheme.

According to the Debt Management Office, Nigeria’s total public debt rose to ₦152.40 trillion as of June 2025, up from ₦149.39 trillion in March — an increase of ₦3.01 trillion within three months. In dollar terms, the debt stands at $99.66 billion, underscoring the country’s growing reliance on borrowing to fund fiscal shortfalls amid ongoing revenue reforms and foreign exchange liberalization.

Nigeria Immigration Service Says Natasha Akpoti’s Passport ‘Seizure’ Was Routine.

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) has addressed claims that it seized the international passport of Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Udughan.

A senior NIS official, who requested anonymity, described the incident at the airport as “routine.” “She was not detained. Her passport may have been taken for a standard clearance procedure,” the officer explained.

When contacted, NIS spokesman ACI Akinsola Akinlabi said he was away from Abuja but would investigate the matter to provide clarification.

Senator Akpoti-Udughan had earlier alleged during a Facebook Live session that her passport was confiscated on the orders of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The passport was, however, returned to her during the live broadcast.

“They Feared Political Persecution” — Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Opens Up on Colleagues’ Silence During Her Suspension

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has revealed that many of her colleagues in the National Assembly refrained from publicly supporting her during her six-month suspension out of fear of political persecution.

Speaking during the commissioning of a new market in Okene, Kogi State, Natasha said that while several senators expressed private solidarity, they avoided public association with her to protect their political standing.

“When a government official faces challenges, isolation comes naturally,” she said.
“Even when people are sympathetic, they are afraid to associate with you openly for fear of being castigated or persecuted. Many senators stood by me quietly — they called, they visited — but in public, they couldn’t show it. I’m not offended by that.”


The lawmaker described her suspension as illegal, arguing that it exposed the fear and intimidation that influence behavior within government institutions.

Recall that Senator Natasha was suspended in March over allegations involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio, but made her return to the Red Chamber in September after serving her six-month suspension.

Akpabio Slams Viral Post Mocking Trump: “It’s a Complete Fabrication” — Senate President Denies Making Anti-Trump Comments

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has firmly denied a viral social media post alleging that he mocked U.S. President Donald Trump over his recent comments on alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria.

The Senate leader, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, described the viral post as “malicious, fabricated, and reckless misinformation”, warning Nigerians to disregard it entirely.

The controversial post, circulated by a social media page known as Rant HQ, falsely quoted Akpabio as saying that Nigerians were “satisfied with killings” and that Trump should “focus on the U.S.” The statement stirred widespread outrage amid rising diplomatic tension following Trump’s warning of possible military action in Nigeria.

“The post is a total falsehood — a product of mischief and a desperate attempt to incite misunderstanding between Senator Akpabio and President Trump,” Eyiboh stated.


He clarified that Akpabio, known for his diplomatic approach and global reputation, holds Trump in “high regard as a leader of a great nation” and would “never issue comments on matters concerning U.S. domestic affairs or Nigeria’s foreign policy.”

The Senate President’s office condemned the post as “digital recklessness aimed at tarnishing reputations and inflaming diplomatic sentiments,” urging social media users to verify information before sharing.

Trump’s earlier post on Truth Social — where he threatened potential U.S. military intervention in Nigeria to tackle “Islamic terrorists” — has continued to generate global debate.

“Freedom of expression is not freedom to lie,” Eyiboh warned, calling for responsible communication online.


Akpabio’s office reaffirmed that the Senate remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions and maintaining Nigeria’s global diplomatic respect.

Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Extends Olive Branch to Akpabio with Project Commissioning Invitation.

Relations between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) and Senate President Godswill Akpabio appear to be warming as the Kogi lawmaker has invited Akpabio and other Senators to a project commissioning in her constituency.

The invitation, personally signed by Akpoti-Uduaghan, was read by Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary. The event, scheduled for Sunday in Ihima, Kogi State, is part of activities marking her second year in the Senate.

“In marking my second-year anniversary as a serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I wish to invite fellow Distinguished Senators to join me for projects commissioning in Kogi State,” the letter stated.

The meeting point is Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s residence at Plot 101, Jimoh Akpoti Street, Ihima, Okene. Senators arriving by air were advised to use the Obajana Airstrip before proceeding to the venue by road.

After reading the letter, Akpabio responded briefly but warmly: “Congratulations in advance.”

The gesture is seen as a step toward reconciliation following their contentious dispute earlier this year over Senate seat reallocation, a conflict that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension on March 6. 

Since returning on September 24, she has gradually resumed active participation in plenary, including contributing to debates such as the Criminal Code Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

Her latest invitation marks the clearest public sign yet of a renewed working relationship with the Senate leadership.

Senator Natasha violated Penal Code, must face Criminal Charges – FG.

The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice has insisted that the defamation charges filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan were properly instituted in line with the provisions of the Penal Code Law of Nigeria and the Constitution.

The AGF’s office stated this in its response to the senator’s preliminary objection to the three-count criminal charge pending before the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Maitama, presided over by Justice Chizoba Oji.

The charges against Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, stemmed from petitions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and former Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, following her public claims that the duo had conspired to assassinate her.

AGF Insists Charges Are Lawful
In its counter-affidavit, the AGF’s office maintained that the decision to prosecute the senator was taken after a comprehensive investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, which reviewed all petitions from both the complainants and the defendant.

“The three counts were preferred against the defendant pursuant to the Penal Code Law of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and in the bona fide exercise of the prosecutorial powers of the Honourable Attorney-General of the Federation as guaranteed under the Constitution,” the prosecution stated.

It further argued that the senator’s actions contravened provisions of the law, stressing that the case was filed “in the public interest, the interest of justice, and to prevent abuse of legal process.”

According to the AGF’s office, the charges were neither politically motivated nor an abuse of prosecutorial power.

“The criminal charge against the defendant arose from the comprehensive and conclusive investigation of the case, including all petitions and parties involved, by the Nigeria Police Force.”

Senate Approves Life Imprisonment for Defilement of Minors.

The Nigerian Senate has approved life imprisonment with no option of fine for anyone found guilty of defiling a minor, marking a tougher stance against child sexual abuse.

During plenary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio distinguished defilement from rape, insisting that offences involving minors deserve heavier punishment.

“Defilement of a minor should be different from that of rape; those involved in defilement should suffer greater punishment. I promise that it should be 20 years if you defile an underage,” Akpabio said, adding that he had witnessed many cases involving children aged five to ten years.

He then invited contributions from lawmakers. Senator Adamu Aliero proposed that the minimum sentence for defilement be fixed at 20 years, stressing that offenders should not be given any option of fine.

In a stronger recommendation, Senator Sunday Adeleke called for life imprisonment, citing countries like India and Pakistan that treat defilement as a capital offence. He argued that Nigeria must demonstrate zero tolerance for such crimes.

After deliberation, the Senate unanimously adopted the motion, resolving that any man or woman who engages in sexual intercourse with a minor will face life imprisonment without the possibility of a fine.

Lawmakers noted that the resolution reflects the National Assembly’s determination to protect children and curb the rising cases of sexual violence across the country. The Senate President described the decision as a step toward restoring dignity, justice, and moral responsibility within Nigerian society.

Drama in Senate as Natasha Confronts Akpabio Over Abortion Debate, Oshiomhole Cites Rule to Stop Her.

There was mild drama during Tuesday’s plenary session in the Nigerian Senate as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan confronted Senate President Godswill Akpabio after being denied the chance to speak on the issue of abortion.

Senator Natasha, visibly displeased, pleaded to be heard, saying, “Mr. Senate President, please may I speak. I’m a woman, and abortion has to do with women it’s very important, sir.”

The Senate President responded that the matter had already been stepped down, but he briefly allowed her to add a comment if necessary.
“This has been stepped down in totality, distinguished senator, but if you have anything to add, you can say,” Akpabio stated.

However, former Edo State governor and senator, Adams Oshiomhole, immediately objected, insisting that parliamentary rules must be respected.

“Mr. President, we’ve been tutored over and over that when a matter has been concluded and you’ve dropped the gavel, if you grant an exception to distinguished Senator Natasha, then you must extend the same extension to us which makes our rule meaningless. The rule should be obeyed. We have said no discussion, and she should obey the rule,” Oshiomhole maintained.

In his final ruling, Akpabio clarified that he did not initially know the nature of Natasha’s intended comment, saying,
“I am not a spirit to know what the senator wants to say. If I knew, I would have referred her to Rule 52, Subsection 6. Since the Senate has come to a conclusion, it shall be out of order.”

He then ruled Senator Natasha out of order, ending the exchange.

New INEC Chairman Vows to Make Elections So Credible Even Losers Will Congratulate Winners.

Newly confirmed INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has pledged to deliver elections so transparent and credible that even losing candidates will willingly congratulate the winners.

Speaking during his Senate screening and confirmation on Thursday, Amupitan said his mission is to rebuild public trust in the electoral process through collaboration with key institutions like the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

“Our goal is to make elections so credible that even the loser will congratulate the winner in good faith, just as both sides accept a fair court judgment,” he told lawmakers.

The Senate unanimously approved his appointment after a three-hour screening session. Senate President Godswill Akpabio charged him to ensure that every vote counts, noting that his confirmation marks a new chapter after Prof. Mahmood Yakubu’s 10-year tenure.

Amupitan promised to audit INEC’s Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and Result Viewing Portal (IReV) to correct the glitches that eroded confidence in the 2023 elections. He also vowed to strengthen accountability within the commission through an Ethics and Compliance Committee and a whistleblower policy.

He further said INEC will work with security agencies and invest in technology, including drones, to safeguard election materials and logistics.

“This is a sacred trust,” Amupitan said. “We will make our elections so credible that even those who lose will admit it was fair and just.”

Joash Amupitan Reacts After Akpabio Asked Him If He Has Ever Represented Peter Obi In A Legal Case.

Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan has reacted after he was asked if he has ever represented the former governor of Anambra state and Labour Party, LP, candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Peter Gregory Obi, in a legal case.

His reaction was contained in a viral video that was posted on the official X handle of NEWS CENTRAL TV on Thursday, October 16, 2023.

The question was thrown at him by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio during a screening at the National Assembly.

In the viral video that surfaced online, when the Senate President asked if he has ever represented the the former governor of Anambra state in a legal case, he responded by saying that he has never represented him. Joash Ojo Amupitan also stated that he has never represented the Peoples Democratic Party.

He also clarified that he was not among the legal team of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2023 presidential tribunal.

Here is what the Senate President said;

"So, you have never represented Peter Obi or PDP?".

Here is what Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan said;

"I was not part of it. I didn't represent them".

Court fixes October 31 for jurisdiction ruling on Dagogo’s suit against Tinubu.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled October 31, 2025, to deliver its ruling on the issue of jurisdiction in a suit filed by former House of Representatives member Farah Dagogo, challenging President Bola Tinubu’s constitutional authority to suspend democratically elected officials during the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

The suit, No. FHC/PH/CS/50/2025, lists as defendants the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd.), who served as the Rivers State Administrator during the emergency rule period.

At Friday’s hearing, counsel to the plaintiff, Babafemi Adegbite, adopted his written arguments supporting the court’s jurisdiction to entertain the matter.

Presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, after taking submissions from both parties, reserved his ruling and adjourned the matter until October 31.

Speaking to journalists after the proceedings, Adegbite reiterated his client’s stance that President Tinubu exceeded his constitutional powers by suspending elected officials in both the executive and legislative arms of the Rivers State Government.

He said, “Even though they have now been reinstated, the action remains unconstitutional. We need a clear judicial pronouncement to prevent future occurrences.”

Adegbite maintained that the reinstatement of the affected officials does not make the case academic, noting that the core issue revolves around constitutional integrity and the scope of presidential power.

He further distinguished Dagogo’s suit from previous emergency rule cases that were struck out for lack of jurisdiction, insisting that the facts and legal issues in this case are different.

Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Recounts How He Helped Young Man With $85,000 After a Mid-Flight Encounter

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has shared an inspiring story about how a brief encounter with a young man on a commercial flight years ago turned into a life-changing act of generosity.

Speaking during a recent event, Akpabio narrated that while he was serving as a governor and frequently flying on commercial aircraft, a young man who had always wanted to meet him finally got the chance when he was assigned as part of the flight crew on one of his trips.

“At about 35,000 feet, he came dressed in his uniform and said to me, ‘Your Excellency, if this plane should crash now, some of you will die as rich men, and some of us will die as poor men,’” Akpabio recalled. “I asked him, ‘How do you want to die as a rich man or a poor man?’ He said, ‘I’d like to die as a rich man.’”

The Senate President said the young man then explained that he had gained admission into an aviation school in the United States but could not afford the fees.

“When we landed, I told him to leave the aircraft and follow me,” Akpabio said. “According to him, not from my mouth, the first money I gave him was about $85,000. Later, he brought two of his friends, and I did the same for them. Their lives changed completely.”

Akpabio noted that the young man, who is now doing very well and has a family, recently shared the story in an interview with media personality Daddy Freeze.

“Someone stumbled on the video on Instagram and brought it to show me,” Akpabio added. “If he is listening to me tonight, tell him I would like to see him so that I can pay him back some of the money.”

Super Eagles’ Flight to Uyo Delayed After Aircraft’s Windscreen Cracked Mid-Air.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed that the Super Eagles’ return to Uyo for Tuesday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic was delayed after their aircraft developed a cr+cked windscreen mid-air.

The ValueJet Airline plane, which had earlier flown part of the team to Polokwane for the match against Lesotho, made an emergency return to Luanda, Angola, shortly after takeoff during a refuelling stop.

According to the NFF Communications Department, the pilot acted swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers, and the aircraft landed safely back in Luanda without casualties.

The incident occurred as the team was heading home following a 2–1 away win over Lesotho, a result that boosted Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The victory lifted the Eagles to third place in Group C with 14 points, behind Benin Republic (17) and South Africa (15).

The NFF stated that ValueJet, in coordination with the Federal Government, the Ministers of Aviation and Foreign Affairs, and the Chief of Staff to the President, is working urgently to secure permits for a replacement aircraft from Lagos to transport the delegation to Uyo.

Tuesday’s fixture is seen as a must-win for Nigeria. Only group winners qualify automatically for the World Cup, while the four best runners-up advance to the playoffs.

To keep their qualification hopes alive, the Super Eagles must defeat Benin Republic and hope South Africa drops points in their final game. Anything less would end Nigeria’s bid to return to the world stage after missing Qatar 2022.

The clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo is being viewed as a defining moment for the three-time African champions, who are determined to reclaim national pride and secure a place at FIFA 2026.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has declared that the National Assembly will not be held hostage by the “disruptive instincts” of any of its members.

Alleged defamation: You’ve three days to apologise or be sued – Akpabio warns Pearse.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has threatened to sue a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Lagos state, Adetokunbo Pearse, over what he described as false and defamatory statements made against him during a live broadcast on Arise Television.

Akpabio, in a demand letter dated October 7, 2025, and signed by his legal representatives, S. I. Ameh (SAN) & Co., alleged that Pearse made reckless and malicious comments intended to damage his reputation.

He ordered Pearse to issue a public apology and retraction within three days or face legal proceedings for defamation and criminal incitement.

The letter, titled “Demand for Immediate Retraction and Public Apology for Defamatory Publication Against Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON,” stated that during a political segment on Arise TV on October 4, 2025, Pearse made unsubstantiated allegations of corruption, manipulation, and criminality against the Senate President.

“If we get more women in the National Assembly and we have a Senate President like Akpabio, what is the point?

“The National Assembly we have now is a rubber-stamp assembly. Any president who wants to manipulate it can do so. And this one is actually manipulating it to the detriment of progress for Nigerians.

“Akpabio should not be President of the Senate. He’s a criminal; he shouldn’t be there. He has cases in the EFCC, millions that he stole when he was governor… If he has criminal cases, let him go and answer them. There’s no way a man like that should be there in the first place,” Pearse had said.

The Senate President’s legal team described the comments as false in every material particular, stating that the remarks were made with total disregard for the truth and in bad faith.

They argued that the statements were intended to portray their client as a corrupt and dishonest politician, thereby exposing him to public ridicule and hatred.

“The Flame May Flicker, But It Must Never Die” — Senate President Akpabio Delivers Stirring Independence Message at 65th Anniversary


In a session that beautifully merged celebration with governance, Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered an emotional address to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging unity, resilience, and a renewed sense of national purpose.

Speaking during plenary at the National Assembly, Akpabio congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians on the nation’s milestone, describing independence as a timeless reminder of the sacrifices made by heroes who fought for freedom and self-determination.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, Akpabio described nation-building as an enduring process rather than a one-time event.

“After we hoisted our flag of freedom 65 years ago, we are reminded that the journey of nationhood is not a sprint but a marathon,” he said.
“It is a relay of faith and sacrifice — one generation handing the torch to the next.”


He encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast amid present challenges, adding that “the flame may flicker, but it must never be allowed to die.” Akpabio also drew inspiration from the national anthem, reminding the Senate that “the labors of our heroes past” should continue to guide the country toward justice, peace, and prosperity.

Acknowledging Nigeria’s mixed history of “shadow and sunshine,” Akpabio praised the legislature’s role in sustaining democracy and called on lawmakers to work collectively toward governance that truly serves the people.

The session also featured a symbolic moment — the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after a period of medical recovery. Her presence underscored Akpabio’s message of resilience, continuity, and inclusiveness in national leadership.

The Senate President’s message struck a balance between celebration and reflection, highlighting the importance of perseverance and unity in keeping Nigeria’s democratic flame alive.

"We hear you, we know your expectations" — Akpabio Promises Open, Accountable and Responsive 10th Senate.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the 10th Senate remains open, accountable, and responsive to Nigerians.

Akpabio made the pledge on Tuesday while addressing lawmakers at the resumption of plenary after a 10-week recess. In his welcome address titled “Steady Hands for a Great Nation.

He said, “To the citizens of Nigeria, we say this: we hear you. We know your expectations. You ask not for excuses but for results; not for noise but for substance.
This Senate will remain open, accountable, and responsive. We will not shrink from scrutiny, indeed, we welcome it, for accountability is the lifeblood of democracy.
But it must be clearly understood: the foundation of every democracy is its legislature. Those who seek to weaken the legislature, in truth, seek to wreck the substructure of democracy itself.”

Akpabio expressed sympathy to Nigerians affected by floods, insecurity, hunger, and other hardships, assuring them of the Senate’s solidarity.

Charging lawmakers to resume with renewed energy, he said:

“Our people do not look to us for lamentations; they look to us for action. The banners of terrorism and banditry still threaten the countryside. The cost of living weighs upon the family table like an iron chain. The flickering of our national grid leaves cities in darkness and commerce in paralysis. These trials summon us to service of uncommon urgency — and to partnership with the Executive Arm, that together we rewrite the story of our nation.”

He urged senators to pursue reforms that will strengthen the economy, education, healthcare, and the Constitution while maintaining oversight integrity.

“Our relations with the Executive shall remain frank and firm — neither obsequious nor obstructive. Where policies raise our people, we shall lend our strength; where they imperil them, we shall speak on their behalf.
Let this Senate be remembered as an instrument of national transformation, a citadel of democracy, and a beacon of hope.”

Senate Proposes 10-Year Passport Ban for Nigerians Convicted Abroad.

The Senate has advanced a bill seeking to impose a 10-year international passport ban on Nigerians convicted of crimes in foreign countries, as part of efforts to protect the nation’s image and tighten passport issuance.

The bill, which scaled second reading on Tuesday, received unanimous support from senators after being put to a voice vote by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

Sponsor of the bill, Senator Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa Northwest), said the measure was necessary to stop non-Nigerians from fraudulently acquiring Nigerian passports and to curb the misuse of the nation’s identity abroad.

“Nigerians of all shades and colours are being disrespected in foreign lands because of the ease of acquiring Nigerian passports,” Hussaini said. “We must reclaim the dignity of the green passport.”

Backing the bill, Akpabio described it as “a bold step to preserve the dignity and integrity of Nigerians.” He recalled a robbery incident in Dubai where suspects were initially identified as Nigerians but were later found to be foreigners using Nigerian passports.

“This bill will tighten passport issuance and ensure that anyone who damages Nigeria’s image abroad faces consequences,” he said, “Any Nigerian who tarnishes our image should not only face imprisonment abroad but also lose their passport for at least 10 years.”

The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Interior for further legislative action and a public hearing.

If enacted, the legislation will make Nigeria one of the few African nations to penalize citizens convicted abroad with a domestic passport ban — a move lawmakers say will help restore global respect for the Nigerian passport and serve as a deterrent against criminal behavior overseas.