Senate President Godswill Akpabio has said he travelled to Italy to pray for President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria, and an end to insecurity, banditry and terrorism. NigerianBusiness Directory
Akpabio spoke in a viral video after visiting the Prayer Ground of St. Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy, where he said he embarked on what he described as a “slight pilgrimage” and spiritual journey.
He said his prayers covered 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 said his decision was based on his Christian belief that efforts to protect the country also require 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.”
The visit comes as Nigeria continues to face attacks, kidnappings and other forms of insecurity. Human Rights Watch said insecurity remained prevalent across the country in 2025, while ACLED continues to track violent incidents and militant activity in Nigeria in 2026.
In August, a mass kidnapping in Niger State involving hundreds of people prompted President Tinubu to order security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims. HireGrant Writers
More recently, Nigerian authorities began the trial of five suspected Ansaru members over alleged involvement in the abduction of students and teachers in Oyo State, highlighting the continuing threat posed by militant groups.
Akpabio’s visit also comes ahead of the 2027 general elections. Reports on the trip said he prayed not only for an end to banditry and terrorism but also for peaceful elections.