Senator Abdulaziz Yari (APC, Zamfara West) has dismissed calls for United States President Donald Trump to intervene in Nigeria’s security challenges.
The former Zamfara State governor, who spoke in Abuja at the official flag-off of the One Nigeria Project organised by the National Association of Former Local Government Council Chairmen, said only Nigerians can fix the country.
The senator urged the elite — whom he estimated to be no more than two million out of Nigeria’s total population — to put national interest above personal gain and respect the rights of the majority.
According to him, he has monitored local government administration since 1986 and believes it remains the tier of government closest to the people, yet the most underfunded.
He warned against reliance on foreign solutions.
The senator said, “America says its own country is God’s own country. This Nigeria is more of God’s own country than America.”
Drawing a comparison with American patriotism, Yari asked why Nigerian elites cannot prioritise their own nation.
“This country, it is high time we came together and put the interest of Nigeria first.
“So elites, what is the problem? You don’t love your country. If Nigeria goes down today, do you have another country?
“Stop calling on Trump. Trump has no business in Nigeria. He cannot solve the problems of Nigeria. The problem of Nigeria will be solved by Nigerians.”
Yari also pushed for a stronger financial framework for local councils, arguing that many critics of Nigeria speak recklessly because they hold foreign passports.
He said, “By speaking honestly about our country, I am not driven by sentiment or fear. I understand that many who make damning remarks about Nigeria hold multiple passports. But I have only one passport—the Nigerian green passport—and I carry it with pride.
“Those who hold dual citizenship sometimes forget the weight of their words, because they have somewhere else to run to. Their families have alternatives; we do not. That is why we will continue to speak the truth, stand firm, and remain committed to Nigeria.
“Despite our criticisms, we will continue to work and pray for this country—and for its leaders—to succeed. When those entrusted with the leadership of the country do the right thing, the positive impact comes back to all of us.”
