I’m Not Against Borrowing, But Show Us Results – Ndume Slams Misuse of Public Funds

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised critical questions about the impact and transparency of Nigeria’s borrowing practices, stressing that while he is not opposed to the idea of taking loans, the real concern lies in how the borrowed funds are being utilized and who is truly benefiting from them.

According to a report from Arise News TV, speaking in an interview with journalists, Senator Ndume expressed concern that despite the trillions borrowed by successive governments, the average Nigerian has seen little to no tangible benefit. According to him, if the funds were genuinely used for the purposes stated, there would be visible results and citizens would be coming forward in appreciation.

“I am not against borrowing,” Ndume stated. “But the question is: where are those who these borrowed monies are servicing? If the projects that the loans were taken for are real and impactful, somebody somewhere would have come out to say, ‘Thank you.’”

The senator, a vocal lawmaker and advocate for fiscal responsibility, noted that many communities in his constituency and across Nigeria continue to lack access to basic infrastructure, healthcare, and education despite reports of massive spending on capital projects.

Ndume’s remarks come amid growing public concern over Nigeria’s rising debt profile, which has soared over the past decade. Critics argue that the government’s heavy reliance on loans both domestic and international has not translated into measurable development for the majority of citizens.

He emphasized that transparency, accountability, and value-for-money audits are critical in ensuring that borrowing does not become a burden on future generations. “We cannot keep mortgaging our future without seeing real results. Borrowing isn’t the problem mismanagement is,” he added.

Ndume also called on oversight institutions, particularly the National Assembly and the Auditor-General’s office, to play a more active role in tracking how loans are disbursed and implemented.

As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges, including inflation, unemployment, and a weakening currency, Senator Ndume’s comments underscore a growing demand for greater accountability in government spending and a shift from rhetoric to results.

SOURCE: gist4_U