Senate President Godswill Akpabio has revealed that he travelled to Italy to offer prayers for President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria’s leaders and an end to insecurity, banditry and terrorism in the country.
Akpabio made the disclosure during a visit to the Prayer Ground of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, describing the trip as a “slight pilgrimage” and spiritual journey. He said his prayers extended to Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the National Assembly, the Federal Executive Council and Nigerians generally.
“Well, I had to go to Italy and, you know, Rome is the capital of the Catholic Church and the world’s capital when it comes to Christianity,” Akpabio said.
“From there I touched Saint Padre Pio Mazzolio and I did supplications. I prayed not just for the president, not just for myself, the vice president and all members of the Senate and National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council.
“I prayed for Nigeria as a whole and I also prayed against insecurity that God should free us from insecurity. I prayed against banditry. I prayed against terrorism.”
The Senate President explained that his decision to undertake the spiritual journey was rooted in his Christian faith and his belief that efforts to secure the country should also involve seeking divine intervention.
“And it might look funny but it’s the truth because in our own religion, we believe that unless God protects the house, the watchmen watch in vain,” he said.
“And so I decided to take this slight pilgrimage, a spiritual journey to pray for Nigeria. I believe strongly.”
Akpabio also said the visit included prayers for peaceful conduct of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. In a separate statement during the visit, he described Nigeria as being affected by banditry and terrorism and said the delegation had travelled to seek blessings for the country, their families and themselves.
The Senate President disclosed that the visit was his 10th to the St. Padre Pio site. He has previously spoken about his devotion to the Catholic saint and linked it to his wife’s recovery following a prolonged period of illness.
The visit comes amid continuing security concerns in Nigeria, with banditry, terrorism, kidnappings and other forms of violence remaining subjects of national concern.
Akpabio’s prayers also come as political parties and prospective candidates prepare for the 2027 general elections, with peaceful elections and security expected to remain important issues in the run-up to the polls.
