Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu assured him of his commitment to restoring security across Nigeria during a private meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, Ndume said security was the central focus of their nearly one-hour discussion. He explained that he spoke frankly about the deteriorating security situation, particularly in Borno State, and relayed the concerns of residents affected by insurgency.
“He told me, ‘Ali, I will do everything to secure Nigerians.’ I believe him, and I pray that the promise will be fulfilled,” Ndume said.
The senator noted that he was candid during the meeting and that President Tinubu appreciated his honesty.
“I was not only frank but blunt. He knows me for speaking the truth, and he appreciated it. There are certain things we discussed that are confidential, so I cannot disclose them,” he added.
Ndume urged the president to expand consultations with respected Nigerians who can offer honest, independent advice on governance and national security without seeking political appointments.
He also praised the recent rescue of abducted victims by Nigerian security agencies, describing it as evidence of improved coordination among the Department of State Services (DSS), the military, and other security institutions.
According to him, the operation demonstrated that security forces can achieve greater success when adequately equipped, trained, and motivated.
Despite the progress, Ndume appealed to the military to sustain its operations, noting that many people—including schoolchildren, students, and travellers—are still being held captive in parts of his Borno South Senatorial District.
He specifically mentioned abductees from Mussa, Lassa, Gwoza, and along the Biu–Buratai Road, urging security agencies to intensify efforts to secure their release.
The senator also called for greater investment in military hardware, particularly attack helicopters, to strengthen ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
“I want to commend our security agencies for taking the fight to the insurgents. They have recorded significant successes, but we must not stop until those still in captivity are rescued,” Ndume said.
