Emmanuel Daudu
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has strongly refuted recent statements by Dr. Babachir Lawal regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s potential bid for re-election in 2027.
Matawalle asserted that President Tinubu enjoys significant support in Northern Nigeria and has made notable strides in governance.
Speaking on Sunday, Matawalle emphasized that Tinubu’s administration has implemented impactful reforms across all regions, including the North. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has been in office for just 19 months, has made significant contributions. The people of the North will rally behind him to build upon these achievements,” he said.
Matawalle highlighted key security improvements, noting that in 2024 alone, Nigerian security forces neutralized over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arrested 11,600 criminals, and recovered more than 10,000 illegal weapons. Additionally, approximately 8,000 kidnap victims were successfully rescued. The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC), in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency, has further strengthened anti-kidnapping efforts.
He dismissed claims of waning Northern support for Tinubu, stating, “Any insinuation to the contrary is a deliberate attempt to sow discord and undermine national security.”
The Minister also outlined Tinubu’s economic policies aimed at transforming the North, including the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development to harness the region’s agricultural potential.
He noted that this initiative is empowering millions, particularly women and youth, and has contributed to stabilizing food prices.
Infrastructure development has also been a priority, with the administration focusing on road construction and transportation network improvements to drive economic growth in the North.
Matawalle underscored the importance of President Tinubu’s signing of the Local Government Autonomy law, which empowers local administrations, enhances accountability, and improves grassroots governance.
Urging critics like Lawal to evaluate Tinubu’s performance objectively, Matawalle stated, “The cries of dissent should not overshadow the progress being made. The North remains steadfast in its support for the President.”
Concluding his statement, he reaffirmed the Northern region’s commitment to Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing, “Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable. We stand firmly behind his vision for a prosperous and secure Nigeria.”
Africa Security Investigation News 