President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has approved the appointment of Sen. Abubakar Danladi Abubakar as his Special Adviser on Special Duties.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the President of the Senate, the appointment takes immediate effect.

Abubakar, according to the statement has served in the 8th Senate representing Taraba North where he served as chairman of Committee on NEPAD and member of other committees.

The 53-year-old former lawmaker also served as Deputy Governor before his election into the Senate in 2015.

In another development, Saraki has described former President of the Senate, Senator David Alechenu Bonaventure Mark, as a patriot and a statesman.

Another statement signed by his Olaniyonu stated that as a two-time Senate President, a retired Brigadier General from the Army; former Minister of Communication; and a one-time military Governor of Niger State, Senator David Mark has distinguished himself as a Nigerian with vast leadership experience.

He said: “Today, I join all Nigerians in celebrating Senator David Mark at 70.

“Undoubtedly, as our nation’s longest serving Senator and Senate President, Senator Mark has contributed significantly to the growth of the legislature in Nigeria and distinguished himself overtime in the service of our nation — in various capacities and at various levels as a patriot and a statesman.

“As you celebrate this milestone of a birthday today, we too, celebrate you and pray that the Almighty in his infinite wisdom, grace and protection, continues to guide you in all that you do.”