Matawalle Reaffirms FG’s Commitment to Security in Sokoto, Governor Aliyu Hails His Leadership

Emmanuel Daudu

In a determined push to quell insecurity in the Northwest, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, paid a high-profile visit to Sokoto State on Monday, September 4, 2024.

His visit, part of an ongoing operation to combat banditry and terrorism in the region, underscored the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to restoring peace and stability in the crisis-ridden state.

During a meeting at the Sokoto State Government House, Dr. Matawalle engaged in strategic discussions with the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, His Excellency, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, PhD.

The visit reinforced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to prioritize security in the Northwest, particularly in areas hardest hit by violent groups.

“The safety of the people of Sokoto, and indeed the entire Northwest, is a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR,” Dr. Matawalle declared.

“The President has made it clear that we must leave no stone unturned in our efforts to restore peace to this region. I am here today to reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to this cause and to assure you that our troops are receiving the full backing of the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs.”

The Minister of State for Defence’s visit also included a morale-boosting engagement with the troops at the 8 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army, where he commended the soldiers for their bravery and resilience in the face of mounting security challenges.

Dr. Matawalle, echoing President Tinubu’s firm stance, called for intensified efforts to eliminate the threats posed by bandits and terrorists.

Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto expressed deep appreciation for the Federal Government’s support and commended Dr. Matawalle’s leadership and dedication to ensuring the safety of Sokoto State and the Northwest.

He described the Minister as “tested, trusted, and reliable,” and highlighted his confidence in the Federal Government’s capacity to eradicate the menace of insecurity in the region.

“Let me thank Mr. President for ordering you and other Security Chiefs to relocate to Sokoto State until we flush out these criminals,” Governor Aliyu stated.

“Honourable Minister, you are tested, trusted, and reliable, and your visit today shows that insecurity will soon be a thing of the past in Sokoto State and the entire Northwest zone.”

The Governor called on the people of Sokoto State to unite and collaborate with the security forces, urging them to avoid spreading fake news and misinformation, which could undermine the efforts to restore peace.

“Security cannot be achieved without the active cooperation and relevant information from our citizens. Together, we can overcome this challenge,” Governor Aliyu added, reassuring the people of Sokoto that their safety and security remain at the forefront of the government’s agenda.

The visit comes at a critical juncture for Sokoto State, which has endured relentless attacks from armed groups over the past months.

The Federal Government’s intensified focus on security operations in the region signals a renewed commitment to ending the violence and fostering lasting peace.

As the Minister of State for Defence concluded his visit, he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s pledge to provide all necessary resources and strategic support to ensure the success of the ongoing military operations.

“We recognize the critical importance of security in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our citizens,” Dr. Matawalle reiterated.

“The troops are doing a credible job under challenging conditions, and I want to assure them and the people of Sokoto State that the Federal Government will continue to provide all necessary resources and strategic guidance to ensure the success of their mission.”

The unwavering stance of both the Federal and State Governments highlights a unified approach to tackling the security issues plaguing the Northwest. With Dr. Matawalle’s assurances and the proactive steps being taken, there is renewed hope among the people of Sokoto State that peace and stability will soon be restored.