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  • Matawalle salutes military at Christmas, calls for unity and peace

    Matawalle salutes military at Christmas, calls for unity and peace

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has extended heartfelt Christmas greetings to the Nigerian military and citizens across all faiths, urging unity and peaceful coexistence during the festive season.

    In a statement issued by his Director of Press and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, Matawalle highlighted the importance of embracing the spirit of love, compassion, and harmony, encouraging Nigerians to reflect on these values beyond the holiday period.

    As a seasoned politician and former Governor of Zamfara State (2019–2023), Matawalle is recognized for his commitment to fostering national unity and stability. 

    His message underscores the need for collective efforts to strengthen bonds among citizens regardless of religious or cultural differences.

    “This Christmas, let us be reminded of the values that unite us as a nation—love, peace, and mutual respect,” Matawalle urged, adding that these principles are vital for building a stronger, more cohesive Nigeria.

    Read Also: Tinubu has ordered Nigerian military to end banditry in 2025 – Matawalle

     “This season serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring principles of peace, unity, love, and sacrifice that bind us as a nation,” the statement said. The Minister, according to the statement, encouraged every Nigerian, regardless of their religious beliefs, to celebrate and honor President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as the brave men and women of the Armed Forces “who tirelessly demonstrate their patriotism in safeguarding the safety and sovereignty of our beloved country.” 

     While highlighting the significance of the yuletide season, the minister noted that the season should “reinforce our bonds of unity, foster a spirit of camaraderie, and inspire compassion towards one another.”

     He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their collective efforts to build a secure and prosperous country.

  • Tinubu has ordered Nigerian military to end banditry in 2025 – Matawalle

    Tinubu has ordered Nigerian military to end banditry in 2025 – Matawalle

    President Bola Tinubu has directed the Nigerian military to ensure that banditry is brought to an end in 2025, Minister of State for Defense, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has said.

    Matawalle disclosed this on Saturday while addressing All Progressives Congress, APC, members at his Gusau residence, promising that the military would do everything to comply with the President’s directive.

    The former governor of Zamfara State said the Federal Government has concluded all necessary arrangements to deploy more troops and military equipment to troubled areas in the North-West zone.

    Read Also: New trajectory of NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership

    “The Federal Government and military chiefs are very much disturbed over the issue of informants aiding the bandits.

     “That is the major challenge for not winning the war against bandits,” he lamented.

    Matawalle lamented that the informants are members of the communities who are selling their conscience to the devil for the sake of money.

  • Northern CSOs pledge support for Tinubu, Matawalle’s efforts on war against banditry

    Northern CSOs pledge support for Tinubu, Matawalle’s efforts on war against banditry

    A group of civil rights activists and NGOs under the auspices of Arewa Citizens Rights Watchdogs (ACRW) have thrown their weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s war against insurgency and banditry across the 19 northern states.

    The group said President Tinubu, through the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has demonstrated an unflinching commitment to changing the narrative in the north.

    In a statement signed by Comrade Adamu Adamu, the group commended the duo’s strategic approach to addressing the menace of banditry, which has yielded significant results.

    Adamu noted that Matawalle’s innovative initiatives have been instrumental in tackling the root causes of insecurity in the region, adding that his dedication to finding lasting solutions to the crisis attests to his leadership and vision.

    He further said that the minister has introduced novel strategies to counter the threats posed by bandits, including community-led initiatives that promote dialogue and reconciliation.

    Additionally, Adamu said Matawalle’s collaborative approach with other stakeholders, including traditional leaders and local communities, has helped to build trust and foster cooperation in the fight against banditry.

    “We wish to express our unwavering support for President Bola Tinubu and Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle’s, relentless efforts in combating banditry in Nigeria. Their tireless commitment to restoring peace and security in our region is truly commendable,” the statement said. 

    “Their strategic approach to addressing the menace of banditry has not gone unnoticed. Matawalle’s innovative initiatives, in particular, have been instrumental in tackling the root causes of insecurity in the region. His dedication to finding lasting solutions to the crisis attests to his leadership and vision.

    “Matawalle’s innovations in the defence sector have been noteworthy. He has introduced novel strategies to counter the threats posed by bandits, including community-led initiatives that promote dialogue and reconciliation.

    Read Also: Tinubu’s tax reforms will ease burden on ordinary citizens, Matawalle assures northerners 

    “Additionally, his efforts have boosted their morale and effectiveness. Furthermore, Matawalle’s collaborative approach with other stakeholders, including traditional leaders and local communities, has helped to build trust and foster cooperation in the fight against banditry.

    “The impact of Matawalle’s efforts on peace and security in the northeast has been significant. The region has witnessed a reduction in violent attacks, and many communities have begun to rebuild and recover. The minister’s initiatives have also helped to promote social cohesion and address the underlying causes of the conflict.”

    The group urged Matawalle to remain focused on his goals and continue pushing for innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing the region.

    They also called on other ministers to take a cue from Matawalle’s exemplary leadership, emphasising that his commitment to finding solutions to Nigeria’s security challenges is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication and hard work.

    “As the security situation in the northeast continues to improve, it is essential that Matawalle remains focused on his goals. We urge him to continue pushing for innovative solutions to the complex challenges facing our region,” Adamu added. 

    “His leadership and vision have been instrumental in bringing about positive change, and we have no doubt that he will continue to make a meaningful impact. We also call on other ministers to take a cue from Matawalle’s exemplary leadership.”

  • Tinubu’s tax reforms will ease burden on ordinary citizens, Matawalle assures northerners 

    Tinubu’s tax reforms will ease burden on ordinary citizens, Matawalle assures northerners 

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has assured northerners that the proposed tax reforms by President Bola Tinubu would ease the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.

    He said that the tax reforms would foster a more business-friendly environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, which would eventually create jobs for the teeming population.

    The minister said who said this in a statement on Thursday, noted hat Tinubu’s robust economic policies and reforms were yielding significant positive results for the country. 

    According to him, “these initiatives are contributing to a turnaround in the economy that will benefits all Nigerians.”

    Matawalle urged critics, especially from the northern part of the country, to be positive in their narratives. 

    He also called other citizens to remain steadfast in their support for the President and to reject divisive narratives.

    He said: “It is crucial for Nigerians to stand united behind Mr. President, who is diligently working hard to revitalize our economy through a series of effective policies, programs, and reforms.

    “Tinubu’s tax reforms as a pivotal element in the country’s economic turnaround. These reforms are designed to create a more equitable tax system, which will enhance revenue generation for the government while easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.

    “By broadening the tax base and ensuring that everyone pays their fair share, President Tinubu is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth. easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.”

    In the area of defence, the minister noted that there has been an improvements in national security under the present administration.

    He said that President Tinubu had made substantial strides in enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military through the provision of modern hardware and equipment. 

    The minister said that the present administration has boosted the morale of the members of the military through timely payment of their allowances and salary increases.

    “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing a renewed commitment to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians, and I encourage everyone to recognize the positive changes taking place,” Matawalle concluded,” he said.

  • Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results, says Matawalle

    Tinubu’s reforms yielding positive results, says Matawalle

    The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle has said that President Bola Tinubu’s reforms and robust economic policies were yielding significant positive results.

    This is contained in a statement on Thursday in Abuja by Mr Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

    Matawalle said that these policies, which include the new tax reforms and several key achievements across various sectors were already contributing to a a turn around in the nation’s economy.

    He added that this turnaround in the economy would in the long run benefits all Nigerians.

    He therefore urged critics of the Tinubu’s administration, particular those from some quarters in Northern Nigeria to be positive in their narrations.

    “In the light of ongoing criticism, particularly from some quarters in Northern Nigeria, I urge critics to be positive in their narratives.

    “I also call on citizens to remain steadfast in their support for the President and to reject divisive narratives.

    “It is crucial for Nigerians to stand united behind Mr President, who is diligently working hard to revitalise our economy through series of effective policies, programmes and reforms,” he said.

    The minister highlighting the new tax reforms, described them as pivotal elements in the country’s economic turnaround.

    He explained that these reforms were designed to create a more equitable tax system, which would enhance revenue generation for the government while easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens and small businesses.

    “By broadening the tax base and ensuring that everyone pays their fair share, President Tinubu is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth.

    “These reforms will not only increase government revenues but also stimulate investment and job creation across various sectors,” Matawalle explained.

    He further said that the tax reforms aim to simplify the tax administration process, making it easier for individuals and businesses to comply.

    According to him, this will foster a more business-friendly environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation, which are essential for driving economic progress.

    Matawalle further highlighted other key achievements across various sectors to include improvements in national security.

    He emphasised that the present administration had made giant strides in enhancing the capabilities of the Nigerian military through the provision of modern hardware and equipment.

    He added that military personnel in the country have always received their salaries and allowances timely, and this had significantly boosted their morale.

    “Under President Tinubu’s leadership, we are witnessing a renewed commitment to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians, and I encourage everyone to recognise the positive changes taking place,” the minister said.

    (NAN)

  • Group shortlists Matawalle for Minister of the Year award

    Group shortlists Matawalle for Minister of the Year award

    The International Human Rights Protection Forum Service (IHRPS) has nominated the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, for its prestigious Human Rights Leadership Award, recognizing him as Minister of the Year.

    This honour highlights Matawalle’s exceptional efforts in addressing banditry and advancing human rights in Nigeria.

    In a letter signed by Ambassador Adebayo Lion Ogorry, IHRPS commended Matawalle for his exemplary leadership in combating banditry and prioritizing the safety of civilians, particularly women and children.

    The letter said his commitment to rehabilitation, reconstruction, and peaceful coexistence in affected areas has been instrumental in promoting human dignity and upholding the rights of all individuals.

    The organisation further said that Matawalle’s leadership philosophy aligns with its core values, adding that his courage and determination have been pivotal in bringing hope to countless families and making him a formidable opponent to criminals.

    “As the Minister of State for Defence, Matawalle has been instrumental in the fight against banditry, and his commitment to protecting civilians, especially women and children, from the brutality of banditry has been exemplary,” the letter said.

    “Noteworthy also is his support for rehabilitation, reconstruction, and peaceful coexistence in affected areas. As a key pillar of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, his leadership philosophy, which prioritises the protection of human rights and the promotion of human dignity, aligns seamlessly with our organisation’s core values.

    Read Also: Stop attacks on Matawalle, APC youths tell Lawal

    “Matawalle’s commitment to upholding the rights of all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, is a shining example of the kind of leadership that our organisation seeks to recognise and celebrate.

    “In the face of unrelenting adversity, his courage has shone like a beacon, illuminating the path to a safer, more just Nigeria. His unflinching resolve has brought succour to countless families who had lost hope, and his unshakeable determination has made him the nemesis of criminals who once thought they were above the law.”

    The organisation believes this recognition will motivate Matawalle to do more while serving as a challenge to underperforming government officials

  • APC condemns ‘political protests’ against Matawalle

    APC condemns ‘political protests’ against Matawalle

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) yesterday condemned the persistent protests against the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, over insecurity in Zamfara State.

    Some women and youths from the state on Tuesday protested at the headquarters of the Department of Security Services (DSS) in Abuja over the insecurity in the state.

    The protesters blamed Matawalle, the immediate-past governor of the state, for worsening banditry, which they claimed was the fallout of his alleged closeness with criminals during his administration.

    An APC chieftain, Dr. Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, yesterday hinted that the protest was politically motivated to soil the minister’s reputation.

    Speaking with our correspondent, Dr. Illiasu said Matawalle is not the only security appointee responsible for the fight against criminals and bandits in the country.

    Read Also: Banditry: Fed Govt clears, restates confidence in Matawalle

    “So, why this fixation on Matawalle?” he asked.

    Dr. Illiyasu insisted that “the protests were sponsored and staged managed to particularly target the minister and portray to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation that he has failed, whereas he is just the Minister of State for Defence who has other colleagues to report to, like the Defence Minister, the Security Adviser and indeed the President”.

    He added: “In any case, why are they so particular about Matawalle when Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal is openly failing in his primary responsibility of protecting lives and property in the state, despite collecting huge amount of money through security votes and grants?

    “All he does with the security funds is to sponsor fake protests,” he said.

  • Cabinet reshuffle: Group praises Matawalle, Keyamo for outstanding performances

    Cabinet reshuffle: Group praises Matawalle, Keyamo for outstanding performances

    The National Democratic Front (NDF) has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet reshuffle, urging ministers to continue their outstanding work and build on the progress achieved so far.

    The group specifically commended Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle and Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development Festus Keyamo for their exceptional performances, which have contributed significantly to the administration’s success.

    In a statement by Dr. Bolaji Abdullahi, the NDF said Matawalle’s leadership in combating insecurity is yielding tangible results and bolstering national stability and security.

    Abdullahi, meanwhile, said Keyamo has transformed Nigeria’s aerospace landscape and driven developmental projects, impacting infrastructure and economic growth.

    Other ministers, including Nyesom Wike, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Mohammad Abubakar, Professor Joseph Utsev, and Dave Umahi, were also praised for their notable contributions in their respective sectors.

    “We take this moment to commend the exceptional performances of Bello Matawalle and Festus Keyamo. Their tireless efforts, dedication, and unrelenting passion have significantly contributed to the administration’s resounding success, inspiring hope and confidence in the Nigerian people,” the statement said. 

    “Visibly, Matawalle has demonstrated exceptional leadership acumen, pragmatism, and hands-on expertise in combating insecurity. His dedication to national security has been exemplary, yielding tangible results that have bolstered national stability and security.

    Read Also: Banditry: Fed Govt clears, restates confidence in Matawalle

    “Matawalle’s proactive approach has effectively addressed critical security challenges, showcasing his capacity to drive transformative change. We encourage him to continue his excellent work, pushing the boundaries of innovation and excellence in defence management.

    “Keyamo has spearheaded innovative initiatives in the aviation sector, transforming Nigeria’s aerospace landscape and cementing his position as a visionary leader.

    “His commitment to developmental projects has positively impacted the nation’s infrastructure and economic growth, demonstrating his resolve to drive progress.

    “Ministers Nyesom Wike, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Mohammad Abubakar, Professor Joseph Utsev, and Dave Umahi have also stood out.”

    The group applauded President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s progress, citing his resolve to reshuffle the cabinet as a demonstration of his dedication to excellence.

    The NDF urged all ministers to emulate Matawalle and Keyamo’s exemplary performances, striving for excellence and making President Tinubu proud.

  • Matawalle to Amaechi: Stop weaponising our people’s pain

    Matawalle to Amaechi: Stop weaponising our people’s pain

    The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has condemned the recent statements made by the former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, accusing him of “inciting violence and unrest among the Nigerians.”

    He urged Amaechi to desist from making inflammatory remarks that threaten the peace and stability of the nation.

    Matawalle issued the warning in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Henshaw Ogubike, on Saturday.

    According to the statement, the Minister expressed deep concern over the dangers posed by such rhetoric.

    Read Also: NDYC commends Matawalle for fight against terrorism

    The statement said: “It is both reckless and irresponsible for a former public servant of Amaechi’s standing to incite Nigerians against their own government,

    “At a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is working tirelessly to address the challenges facing the nation through various reforms that are yielding results.

    “It is absurd, preposterous, and shameful for anyone to exploit the genuine situation of our citizens for selfish political gain.”

    The minister said President Bola Tinubu is committed to ensuring peace in every corner of the country.

  • Sokoto residents jubilate as Matawalle visits to encourage Nigerian troops

    Sokoto residents jubilate as Matawalle visits to encourage Nigerian troops

    Sokoto residents erupted in jubilation on Wednesday, October 9, when the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, arrived in the state to rally troops in the fight against banditry.

    Matawalle’s visit is part of the federal government’s efforts to restore peace and security in the North West Zone, which has been plagued by banditry.

    “I’m thrilled to see Matawalle here,” said Usman Usman, a resident.

    “He’s a beacon of hope for us, and his presence gives us confidence that the government is committed to ending this menace.”

    Matawalle’s reputation as a bandits’ nemesis has preceded him, with many residents praising his efforts to tackle insecurity in the region.

    “Matawalle is a tested, trusted, and reliable leader,” said Umar Ibrahim, a Sokoto resident. “We believe in him, and we know he’ll do everything possible to protect us.”

    Notably, Matawalle’s last visit to the northwest led to the death of notorious bandit kingpin Halilu Sububu. This significant breakthrough is a testament to the Minister’s commitment to eradicating banditry.

    Another resident, Shehu Mohammed said, “President Tinubu and Matawalle’s collaborative efforts have yielded notable successes.

    “With Matawalle here, we feel safer, and we know that help is on the way.”

    Meanwhile, in a statement on Tuesday by Henshaw Ogubike, director of information and public relations at the ministry, Matawalle said his arrival in the state spells doom for bandits and their supporters.

    “As directed by Mr. President, I am back to Sokoto state to assure the people of this great region of our commitment to achieving all necessary yardsticks in the fight against insecurity,” he said.

    “We will never leave you alone. I assure you, we will win this war against bandits and those supporting them to unleash terror against our people.

    Read Also: NDYC commends Matawalle for fight against terrorism

    “We must collaborate with all stakeholders in this region to achieve our target. The federal government will continue to boost the morale of our soldiers and security agencies in this fight.”

    The minister expressed his confidence in the ongoing military operation in the northwest zone.

    “I am optimistic that our gallant troops will continue to record successes through Operation Fansan Yamma as we intensify our fight against these criminals,” he said.

    Matawalle vowed to “relentlessly” fight bandits and their supporters, adding that the Tinubu administration will continue to prioritise the protection of lives and property.