“Nation Must Unite Behind A Listening Leader — Ndume Rallies Support For Tinubu”

According to Ireporter Online, former Senate Leader Mohammed Ali Ndume has called on Nigerians to give unwavering support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that national unity is essential for overcoming the country’s current challenges. Ndume made the appeal on Sunday night while speaking at the Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe Annual Award Lecture held at the NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja, where he was honoured as the “Most Outstanding Legislator and Advocate of National Unity.”

Ndume described President Tinubu as a capable, attentive, and visionary leader who requires collective backing to deliver on his mandate. He warned, however, that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) faces the risk of internal tension as waves of defectors troop in from opposition parties without contributing meaningfully to the party’s progress. He likened the situation to a pastor leaving one church only to immediately seek leadership in another, arguing that such tendencies fuel confusion.

While acknowledging that he often speaks candidly about national issues, the Borno South senator maintained that his criticisms stem from a desire to ensure the administration succeeds. He emphasized that leadership is a collective effort, stating that no president can serve as “captain, goalkeeper, and striker” simultaneously. Ndume also urged the removal of incompetent officials, whom he referred to as “kakistocrats and kleptocrats,” stressing that only an efficient and united team can advance the administration’s reform agenda.

At the same event, Dame Uche Azikiwe, widow of Nigeria’s first President, commended the organisers for preserving the legacy of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. She encouraged today’s leaders to emulate the patriotism and selflessness of First Republic statesmen such as Zik, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Sir Ahmadu Bello, whose contributions to national unity remain enduring.

Meanwhile, according to reports monitored by Ireporter Online, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has also urged Nigerians—particularly residents of Iragbiji in Osun State—to stand behind President Tinubu’s administration. Speaking at the 34th Iragbiji Day celebration, the minister described the government’s developmental strides as a “generational blessing” that must be maximised.

Oyetola highlighted the establishment of the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Iragbiji, as well as the approval of a School of Fisheries for the community, noting that the projects would transform education, expand job opportunities, and strengthen Nigeria’s emerging Blue Economy. He urged residents to view the institutions as legacies that will shape the future of their children.

The minister applauded the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur-Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, for fostering peace and progress in the town, noting that his leadership has steered the community toward sustained growth.