Tag: Matawalle

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen Christopher Musa and Service chiefs got a marching order yesterday from the  Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle to relocate to Sokoto State over the spate of terrorist attacks in the state and the Northwest.

They are  to supervise operations from  the state and eliminate the threats of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

The directive came due to resurgence of banditry and terrorism activities in Sokoto State in recent times, which had led to death of a traditional ruler.

Sokoto is the headquarters of 8 Division of the Nigerian Army that oversees Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states.

A statement from the Minister’s office yesterday said the relocation was “part of the Federal Government’s focused initiative to eliminate the threats of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in the Northwest region.”

According to the statement, the defence chiefs would launch “a significant operation” in Sokoto State aimed at eliminating bandits in the North West.

The statement reads: “The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has expressed his sadness over the activities of terrorists and Bandits terrorizing Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and Kebbi States and its environs.

“Consequent to this the Minister of State has directed the Chief of Defence Staff and other military chiefs to move to Sokoto which is the Headquarters of the GOC Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina and kebbi states with him as part of an intensified effort by the Federal Government to rid the North West of the menace of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism.

“This strategic move underscores the unwavering commitment of the government to restoring peace and security in the region. While in the Northwest, they will supervise operations and ensure that Bello Turji and his Bandits gang are flushed out.”

The statement denied recent bandits’ claims that they had captured military equipment in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government  Area of Zamfara State.

Read Also: Lagos kicks-off building of 950m road in Ibeju-Lekki

It stated that: “These criminal bandits have been circulating videos of a Nigerian military Armoured vehicle that was stuck in a water-logged area and late in the night the officers were asked to withdraw to avoid being ambushed by bandits, later in the night the bandits went to the water-logged area, recording video of the Armoured vehicle that was stuck and celebrating it.”

It said the Federal Government had deep concerned about persistent terrorism threats, and  was ready to “deploy all necessary assets to ensure that criminal elements are flushed out and peace is restored to our communities.”

The statement said Matawalle had showed readiness to be on ground with the security chiefs.

“Matawalle  assured the people of Sokoto, Katsina, Zamfara, Kebbi states and the entire Northwest region that the security forces will not leave any stone unturned until they flush out the bandits,” the statement said.

There was jubilation  by residents of Sokoto, especially the  eastern axis over the minister’s directive.

Residents  described  the development as an indication of government’s  commitment and readiness to proffer lasting solutions to the menace.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing Mobilisation Vanguard (YWMV) has urged the Northwest elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to concentrate on resolving their party’s internal crisis rather than blaming the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, for their failure.

The group also sought an urgent apology from PDP leaders over a calumny-sponsored campaign against the Minister and other APC leaders urging Nigerians to be wary of alarmists interested in destroying common interest for selfish gains.

The APC vanguard stressed they should proffer solutions over intrigues bedevilling them and the party’s survival and not stagnate the state and nation’s peace, progress, and stability.

Alhaji Ashiru Tukur, chairman of the vanguard stated while reacting to the opposition PDP’s alleged accusations of political harassment of its supporters in the northwest by the minister.

However, last Thursday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Professionals Support Movement asked President Bola Tinubu to stop Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle from alleged harassment of opposition leaders in the region.

Read Also: Matawalle to CDS: Fish out killers of Sokoto district head

Tukur described the allegations the opposition party stalwarts and members raised as baseless and cheap politically driven propaganda aimed at tarnishing the hard-earned image of the APC administration.

“The allegations of political harassment by whatever means against any political groups in the country under the present administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu is baseless and cheap political propaganda aimed at tarnishing the image of the led APC administration”

He described the PDP in the North as a collection of disappointed and failed political groups of people that have mastered mischief purposely to create political instability and unleash havoc and distrust among Nigerians who are fast having confidence in the APC-led government of renewed hope.

“Apart from PDP’s woeful political failure, it failed to give good governance in a state dwarfed by poverty and economic degradation in addition to the threat of insecurity as a result of negligence and poor governance”, the vanguard said while noting that in its attempt to bury it inability at the state, the PDP resort to mudslinging and name calling.

Tukur said: “This is a mere display of incompetence and weakness associated with hatred and blackmail of targeted political personalities like Minister Matawalle in an attempt to create a heightened tension, conflict, and disharmony at a time people are looking for a solution to end insecurity, hunger, and poverty.”

He described Matawalle as an unequalled philanthropist who even as Minister, identifies with the people of the state in times of hardship and joy citing that

He and his predecessor, Senator Abdulaziz Yari recently extended gestures in cash, food items, and assorted materials to victims of flood disaster across communities in Gummi local government of Zamfara state.

“It is imperative to recognise the consequences associated with the PDP’s deliberate attempt to smear the name of Matawalle which undermines the foundation of collaborative endeavours, hinders social cohesion, and fosters environmentally driven misfortunes against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda.”

The group noted in good light how President Tinubu was committed to cultivating an egalitarian society with focus, characterised by mutual respect, understanding, and progress.

“We need to display the spirit of nationalism and patriotism by giving the President and Nigerians the space and eschew divisive tactics, foster an ethos of cooperation, empathy, and constructive communication rather than heating the polity at the very tender stage as sponsored by enemies of peace, cohesion, and progress.”

Dr Bello Matawalle,  the Minister of State for Defence, has urged the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, to fish out the killers of Alhaji Isa Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa in Sokoto State.

Matawalle gave the charge in a statement on Friday in Abuja, by Henshaw Ogubike,

Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

The minister who condemned the brutal killing of the District Head in strong terms, described it as heinous and unacceptable.

“The killing of Bawa is a senseless and brutal act that will not be tolerated. We will do everything in our power to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

”Consequent to this, Chief of Defence should immediately launch a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

Read Also: Tinubu vows to equip armed forces for effective national security

“Security is one of the top agenda of President Bola Tinubu and he has been giving full support to the military,” he said.

Matawalle assured the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators of the heinous crime and bringing them to justice.

The minister expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the late District Head, the people of Gatawa, and the entire Sokoto State Government.

The district head was reportedly kidnapped alongside his son while returning from Sokoto, and killed by his abductors 26 days after.

Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has urged the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen, Christopher Musa to fish out the killers of Alhaji Isa Bawa, the District Head of Gatawa in Sokoto State.

Matawalle gave the charge in a statement on Friday in Abuja, by Mr Henshaw Ogubike,
Director of Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.

The minister who condemned the brutal killing of the District Head in strong terms described it as heinous and unacceptable.

“The killing of Bawa is a senseless and brutal act that will not be tolerated. We will do everything in our power to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Read Also: Northern forum tackles Sule Lamido over calls for Matawalle’s removal

”Consequent to this, Chief of Defence should immediately launch a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“Security is one of the top agenda of President Bola Tinubu and he has been giving full support to the military,” he said.

Matawalle assured the public that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will leave no stone unturned in fishing out the perpetrators of the heinous crime and bringing them to justice.

“We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians,” he added.

The minister expressed his deepest condolences to the family of the late District Head, the people of Gatawa, and the entire Sokoto State Government.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the district head was reportely kidnapped alongside his son while returning from Sokoto, and killed by his abductors 26 days after.

(NAN)

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has said that the Armed Forces of Nigeria requires 200 million rounds of ammunition annually for its operations.

The minister said each ammunition cost the government at least two dollars.

Matawalle said this on Wednesday, August 14, after signing a Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) between the Ministry of Defense (MOD) vide Defence Industries Corporations of Nigeria (DICON) and the National Agency for Science and Engineering (NASENI) on the establishment of an ammunition production factory in Nigeria.

The minister blamed past administrations for the nation’s failure to achieve self-sufficiency in defence production.

He said: “We have been travelling all over the world, and we see how local manufacturers are developing their countries. But unfortunately, Nigeria, for 60 years, has failed to build the institutions but that has changed and it will continue changing, inshallah.

“Therefore, I make a promise to Mr. President that as far as MOD, before the expiration of his four years, I assure him that DICON will be exporting its military capabilities.

“What we need from all of you is prayers and your dedication. We shall look at it as our own baby, not just for me, but for all of us. Of course, if today we are producing 60 or 70 percent of our military hardware and ammunition, it will reduce the amount of money the ministry or the military is spending every year on the procurement of hardware and ammunition. The ammunition requirement of our military is about 200 million rounds per annum. Just military. Put together, other paramilitaries, the police, we are looking at about 350 million rounds of ammunition per annum”.

Earlier in his remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman, NASENI Khalil Suleiman Halilu, said the signing of the MoU was a significant milestone in strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities and achieving self-reliance in the production of military hardware.

Read Also: Nigeria selling weapons to African countries, says Matawalle

He said the partnership between NASENI and the Ministry of Defence is a testament to the nation’s commitment to harnessing Nigeria’s scientific and engineering expertise in the service of national defence.

Halilu said: “NASENI has always been at the forefront of promoting innovation and technological advancement across various sectors in Nigeria, and with our track record of success in research and development, and manufacturing, we are well positioned to contribute meaningfully to the establishment of the Military Industrial Complex.

“Our goal is to create a robust ecosystem that does not only support the needs of the armed forces but also foster the growth of the local industries, thereby reducing our dependence on imports”.

Halilu said the Military Industrial Complex would serve as a hub for the development and production maintenance of military equipment, ranging from small arms and advanced defence systems.

He said: “By leveraging NASENI’s expertise in areas such as material science, robotics and advanced manufacturing, we ensure that our military is well equipped with the best tools to defend our nation.

“This MOU represents the beginning of a long-term collaboration aimed at enhancing our defence capabilities through innovation and Indigenous production.

“It is our firm belief that through this partnership we will lay the foundation of a self-reliant defence industry that can meet the needs of our armed forces and contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth,” he said.

The minister of steel development, Shuaibu Audu, stated that the Ajaokuta Steel Plant provides a perfect platform for the Military Industrial Complex.”

He said the Ajaokuta steel plant sits on about 24,000 hectares of land, while the steel plant, which has 44 production units, sits on 800 hectares and also has more than 10,000 housing units, of which only 3,000 to 4,000 are occupied.

He said: “So it has the capacity to be able to withhold military barracks. There’s an engineering workshop in some of the production units there that can help to produce helmets, vests, rifles, bullets, and body parts for military tanks and the like.

“There are great opportunities for this initiative to dovetail into an MOU partnership between the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Steel Development to take this initiative further.”

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has said that manay African countries buy weapons from the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

The Minister said this at a press conference to herald the 60th anniversary celebration of DICON and the maiden Africa Defence Industries Conference and Exhibition in Abuja.

He said over 150 other foreign nationals would exhibit their capability and capacity during the exhibition in Nigeria. 

Matawalle said the hosting of the maiden Africa defence industries conference and exhibition in Nigeria has shown the seriousness of the Ministry of Defence and the new DICON under the present administration.

He said: “ We want to change the narrative of DICON. Many people have been asking me that at 60 years old, what has DICON done? What are we doing? That we are buying foreign equipment, foreign ammunition and other armaments that DICON cannot yet produce.

“But when we assume the mantle of the leadership of the Ministry of Defence, we have been going up and down to ensure that DICON stand on its feet and to ensure the capacity and the capability of DICON so that we can be able to produce our own armaments; so that we can bring more investors, particularly the indigenous investors, so that we should give them the right to do as it is happening around the world. 

“Now, most of the countries, not just the government, are partnering with this indigenous defence industry for the production of high tech military hardware. 

Read Also: Nigeria will soon become self-sufficient in military hardware production – Matawalle

“Therefore, DICON is entirely a new DICON, and we assure you within a short time you will see the capability of DICON, and what it can be able to produce.

“We cannot be able to inform the public everything about our capability or capacity for security reasons. But we assure you that we have the capacity, we have the capability to produce and as you know, many countries, many African countries now are coming to DICON for the procurement of their arms and ammunition.”

The minister said the new DICON Act 2023 has the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by “boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment, creating jobs for skilled Nigerians, and reducing capital flight to foreign nations.

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network have condemned in strong terms an inducement plot to tarnish the image of the minister of state for defence, Bello Matawalle, insisting that it’s a threat against Nigeria’s stability.

In separate statements issued to journalists in Kaduna, the AYCF and NAN raised concerns over the integrity of political leadership in Nigeria’s northern region with revelations specifically pointing to a plot targeting figures occupying prominent positions including the Minister of State for Defence Matawalle.

According to the statements signed by Yerima Shettima President General of AYCF and Salifu Suleiman chairman NAN respectively, the orchestrations, revealed by one of the organisers of the August 1 protests, “particularly the $50,000 scheme focused on Minister Matawalle, cast a long shadow over the political landscape, engendering suspicions about the motives behind such malign activities.”

The northern groups therefore called for a deeper inquiry into the political dynamics that may underlie these attacks aimed at undermining the political influence of northern leaders, who are deemed crucial to the support base of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The groups averred that by targeting northern key figures, the orchestrators of such a scheme may be attempting to create divisions between the President and the northern political ranks, thereby destabilising the broader political landscape of Nigeria.

“The implications of such blackmail campaigns possess the potential to disrupt governance and compromise the effectiveness of leadership, particularly at a time when national unity and stability are paramount.”

“The $50,000 plot against Minister Matawalle serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths to which President Tinubu’s adversaries go to, in their desperation to strip him of the influence of such powerful political figures in the North.”

“The specificity of Matawalle as the target illustrates a calculated approach to weaken the President’s existing political structure within the northern region. Minister Matawalle’s pivotal role in the defence sector amplifies the stakes involved, suggesting that such attacks could also compromise national security by diverting attention from pressing matters of state,” the groups stated.

The AYCF cautioned that unrestrained unrest in these regions could devolve into pervasive violence, thereby ushering Nigeria towards a state of chaos that could spiral beyond recovery. “Such scenarios evoke an atmosphere of uncertainty and fear, undermining the very tenets of governance and security.”

“In addressing these alarming revelations, it becomes imperative for relevant authorities to conduct thorough investigations into the claims made by the AYCF. The integrity of the political system must be upheld, and those engaging in blackmail schemes should be held accountable to restore public confidence in governance.

“The audacity of offering $50,000 to compromise the credibility of a high-ranking Minister reflects the serious intent of these destabilizing forces. This suggests a coordinated effort, fueled by international actors, to undermine governance and national cohesion in Nigeria,” NAN stated.

NAN averred that the “recent emergence of a video featuring notorious bandit leader Bello Turji, making unsubstantiated allegations against Minister Matawalle, the timing of these allegations, coupled with the foiled #Endbadgovernance protests, and the ugly dimensions they took in northern Nigeria, have painted a grim picture of an orchestrated campaign intended to destabilize the North and weaken the federal government’s machinery.”

“The fact that a sum as significant as $50,000 was allegedly offered to tarnish the image of a senior government official points to a meticulously orchestrated campaign with potentially dire consequences. This campaign appears to transcend mere political rivalry, revealing a concerning agenda fueled by actors whose interests lie outside Nigeria’s stability.”

Read Also: Insecurity: Attacks on Matawalle, Ribadu targeted at Tinubu

“NAN called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration to take proactive measures to counteract the destabilizing manoeuvres of these groups. The Network emphasizes the need for the government to engage in comprehensive consultations with genuine Northern groups and critical stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s security and stability ahead of the crucial 2027 elections.”

“The principles underpinning international laws, such as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), affirm that while peaceful protest is a vestige of democracy, it does not provide carte blanche for inciting violence or civil disobedience. Reinforcing the rule of law, while respecting citizens’ rights, is essential in preserving the social contract.”

“Consequently, the NAN urged the international community to take a firm stance against the use of their space and media platforms to endorse or promote activities that could destabilize Nigeria. The involvement of foreign entities in fostering unrest must not be overlooked, as allowing such behaviour to persist undermines Nigeria’s sovereignty and endangers the peace and stability of the wider sub-Saharan region,” the group added.

Nigeria will soon become become self-sufficient in local production of military hardwares.

The Minister of Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, made this known on Monday while briefing newsmen as part of activities lined up to celebrate Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) 60th anniversary.

The minister said that through collaboration and innovation, the corporation had established itself as a key player in the defence sector.

He added that as DICON continue to evolve, its contributions would remain crucial to Nigeria’s national security and economic growth.

He also said that the maiden edition of the Africa Defence Industries Conference (ADIC), which would be inaugurated during the the celebration would serve as a premier platform for industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to collaborate.

“The ADIC which will hold between Wednesday and Thursday at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja will also share insights, and explore the future frontiers of defence technology in Africa.

”The theme, DICON @ 60: Future Frontiers in Africa’s Defence Technology,” underscores our commitment to advancing defence capabilities through strategic partnerships, innovation, and technological advancements.

Matawalle noted that the new DICON Act 2023 had the potential to significantly contribute to Nigeria’s national development and national security by boosting foreign exchange earnings through local production of defence equipment.

He said that the Act also had the potential of creating jobs for skilled Nigerians, as well as reducing capital flight to foreign nations.

”DICON was established in 1964 and it has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s defence manufacturing, contributing significantly to national security and technological advancement.

”This 60th anniversary marks a significant milestone in our journey of innovation, resilience, and dedication to the defence needs of our nation.

”Today, DICON is celebrating 60 years of dedicated service in the production and repair of military hardware and equipment.

”Since its establishment, DICON has played a crucial role in Nigeria’s defence sector, collaborating with indigenous companies to achieve excellence in military manufacturing,’’ he said.

The minister added that DICON’s journey began with a modest start, focusing on the production of small arms and ammunition.

He said that over the years, the corporation expanded its capabilities, venturing into the manufacture of military vehicles, artillery, and other defence equipment.

Read Also: Insecurity: Attacks on Matawalle, Ribadu targeted at Tinubu

”In spite of facing challenges, DICON persevered, driven by its commitment to self-reliance and national security.

”We therefore invite innovators, startups, and research institutions to present their cutting-edge solutions that can enhance national and regional security through the Defence Innovation Challenge.

”These celebrations, which commenced on Aug. 9, will herald a new era for DICON as a Military Industrial Complex, following the assent to the new DICON Act by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Nov. 23, 2023.

”We extend a warm invitation to all stakeholders, partners, and the public to join us in celebrating this momentous occasion,’’ Matawalle added.

(NAN)