By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, said on Thursday that President Bola Tinubu cannot solve Nigeria’s security and economic challenges alone. Speaking after meeting the President at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Ndume said their discussion focused on insecurity, economic hardship and governance. He urged Tinubu to engage more Nigerians directly and regularly seek ideas from experienced leaders to address the country’s pressing problems.
Ndume Describes Meeting With Tinubu as Productive
Ndume described his meeting with President Tinubu as fruitful and constructive.
According to him, the President proposed holding similar meetings regularly in a more relaxed environment.
He explained that such meetings would encourage deeper discussions on national issues.
“We had a very fruitful and useful discussion, and the president even insisted that we should do this regularly, not necessarily in the office where people are always rushing in and out, but in a more relaxed setting, perhaps at his residence, so we can think together about how to solve some of these problems.”
President Cannot Solve Nigeria’s Problems Alone
The senator stressed that no Nigerian president could address the country’s challenges without support.
He said leaders must welcome fresh ideas and different perspectives.
According to him, collaboration remains essential for effective governance.
“He needs people who can share ideas with him because, as the saying goes, two heads are better than one. When we put our ideas together, we can come up with solutions.”
Ndume added that he regularly visits the President to offer suggestions that could improve governance.
He disclosed that he personally requested the meeting and received immediate approval.
“I actually sought the audience, and I was immediately granted it. The president was also looking forward to meeting with me,” he said.
Insecurity and Economic Hardship Dominated Discussions
Ndume revealed that insecurity topped the agenda during the meeting.
He also discussed Nigeria’s economic hardship with the President.
According to him, both leaders explored practical ways to improve the situation.
“That is exactly what we discussed today, particularly on insecurity, which is troubling the country, and on the economic hardship.”
The senator expressed satisfaction with the meeting.
He said President Tinubu understands that many Nigerians remain unhappy with current conditions.
Ndume Urges Tinubu to Speak Directly to Nigerians
The Borno lawmaker advised President Tinubu to communicate more frequently with citizens.
He argued that Nigerians prefer hearing directly from their leader.
According to Ndume, government officials should not replace the President’s voice.
“People expect their leader to tell them what is going on, instead of allowing others to speak on his behalf.”
He disclosed that Tinubu promised to consider the advice.
Tinubu Shows Commitment to Fighting Insecurity
Ndume said the President demonstrated seriousness about security.
He explained that his appointment started late because Tinubu first met with service chiefs.
According to him, ongoing military operations have intensified pressure on criminal groups.
He noted that several bandit leaders had been eliminated.
He also said some commanders recently surrendered.
Ndume expressed confidence that sustained operations would weaken criminal networks further.
Senator Calls for Tougher Action Against Terrorists
Ndume supported stronger military action against terrorists and bandits.
He insisted that security forces should not hesitate when confronting terrorists.
“Once you identify a terrorist, you should deal with him, because if you don’t kill him, he will kill you.”
He also welcomed the decision by the 19 northern governors to establish a regional security trust fund.
According to him, the initiative would strengthen existing security efforts.
He said state governments should actively support federal security agencies.
Welfare of Nigerians Requires Urgent Attention
Beyond security, Ndume urged the government to ease the burden on Nigerians.
He called for urgent measures to reduce petrol prices, food costs and transportation expenses.
He stressed that improving citizens’ welfare should remain a national priority.
Ndume Welcomes Renewed Access to the President
The senator said his regular interactions with President Tinubu had resumed.
He recalled that in 2024 he complained about limited access to the President.
At the time, he alleged that some presidential aides shielded Tinubu from realities on the ground.
Ndume compared the situation with former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Olusegun Obasanjo.
He said lawmakers and ministers enjoyed easier access to Obasanjo during his administration.
According to him, open communication helps leaders understand public concerns and make informed decisions.
Ndume concluded that consistent dialogue between the President and stakeholders would improve governance and strengthen public confidence.
