Audu Aliyu, who once worked closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has come forward to share his honest thoughts about the government. According to him, the presidency is not connected to its team and lacks proper cooperation.
During an interview on Channels TV’s The Morning Brief, Aliyu revealed that while he worked in the Presidential Villa, he never had a real meeting with President Tinubu. He stressed that he didn’t just mean casual greetings but full conversations — and those never happened.
Aliyu described the current administration as isolated, saying it avoids collaboration. He claimed that even top advisers and experts in government roles were kept at arm’s length.
He explained that the President made himself unavailable, saying, “Any leader who wants to be reached can be reached.” He also mentioned that Dr. Baba Hakim Ahmed, a top economic adviser, also never had access to the President.
Aliyu criticized the government’s approach to reforms, especially on the economy. He questioned how major decisions were being made without input from the people actually responsible for implementing them. He implied that the President may be making decisions alone without listening to his team.
He believes Nigeria has capable people who can handle national resources and create real change. However, he warned that success will only come if leaders allow room for others to excel and if competition is encouraged.
He again stressed that major economic changes shouldn’t be based on ideas from only one person without involving those who are meant to carry them out.
Aliyu argued that success in government comes when leaders are not afraid of others performing well. In his words, “One man should not fear others shining.”
On the recent resignation of APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, Aliyu made it clear that the President shouldn’t take credit. He compared it to his own resignation, which he said was also not directed by the President.
He praised Ganduje for stepping down on his own, whether it was for health or any other reason. According to him, it was a bold and respectful move, and more leaders should do the same when they no longer belong in certain positions.
Aliyu described Ganduje’s action as an example of accountability and encouraged others to follow in his footsteps for the betterment of the nation.
The former aide also criticized the government’s slow response to urgent humanitarian problems, especially hunger. He pointed out that around 25 Nigerians reportedly die daily due to hunger, which he called a national embarrassment.
He noted that some of these victims know they are dying and have no hope — a heartbreaking situation that should be a top priority for any serious government.
In his closing thoughts, Aliyu said Nigeria needs a leadership style that supports teamwork, values talent, and rewards good performance.
He used a powerful image to make his point: “We are a galaxy of stars. One shining star shouldn’t stop others from shining.” He believes every capable person should be allowed to contribute, and leaders should support one another.
