By Olufemi Lawson
In a time when Nigeria stands at a critical juncture in its fight against insecurity, particularly in the Northwest, one name continues to resonate with hope, action, and unwavering commitment it is, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence.
Since his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Matawalle has brought renewed energy, experience, and practical leadership to the Ministry of Defence. His role, though technically “Minister of State,” has been nothing short of dynamic and frontline. Nigerians across regions are beginning to feel the impact of a man who has refused to sit behind a desk but has chosen to walk the path of action and engagement in confronting one of the nation’s most pressing challenges, banditry and armed violence in the Northwest.
As President Tinubu continues to prioritize security as the backbone of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Dr. Matawalle has proven to be a key ally in translating this vision into measurable action. With his deep understanding of the terrain, having served as Governor of Zamfara State, one of the hotbeds of banditry, Dr Matawalle has leveraged both his political experience and strategic knowledge in supporting military operations and promoting community-based interventions.
He has become a rallying point for synergy between federal authorities and local stakeholders. From security chiefs to traditional leaders, community vigilante groups to intelligence agencies, the Minister has consistently emphasized the importance of collaboration in defeating the criminal elements destabilizing parts of the country.
Unlike others who are quick to offer lip service, Dr. Matawalle’s approach has been defined by practical engagement. He has undertaken visits to military formations, personally assessing troop morale and operational challenges. He has sat with field commanders, consulted with governors, and chaired high-level strategy meetings, all aimed at designing a multidimensional approach to end the reign of terror by non-state actors.
Under his watch, the Ministry of Defence has strengthened coordination among the various arms of the security forces. Dr. Matawalle has also advocated for improved welfare and motivation of frontline soldiers, recognizing that the fight against insecurity is as much about weapons as it is about morale.
His efforts have not gone unnoticed. Communities once under siege in parts of Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, and Kaduna have witnessed increased military presence and more proactive responses to distress calls. The success stories may not yet fill the front pages, but on the ground, the tide is turning, and the people know who to thank.
Perhaps more importantly, Dr. Matawalle has given the Nigerian people a renewed sense of confidence in the leadership of the Ministry of Defence. His dedication, patriotism, and tireless pursuit of peace have earned him the trust of many Nigerians who now see in him a dependable defender of the nation’s territorial integrity.
In a country where insecurity has tested the patience and resilience of citizens, Matawalle’s proactive stance has offered a breath of fresh air and a glimpse of what committed leadership can achieve.
It is no doubt, that this patriot deserves, a resounding vote of confidence. His performance thus far stands as proof that with the right people in the right places, Nigeria can overcome even its most entrenched challenges.
As he continues to champion President Tinubu’s security agenda, Nigerians remain solidly behind him, trusting in his capacity, applauding his commitment, and praying for his continued success in the mission to make Nigeria safe again.
Indeed, the war against insecurity is being won, not by words, but by the commitment of President Tinubu and the actions of men like Bello Matawalle.
Olufemi Lawson is the National Secretary of the Campaign for Democracy (CD). He sent in this piece from Lagos
