Emmanuel Daudu
The Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency Dr. Bello Matawalle, MON, has reiterated that ensuring national security is a shared responsibility that requires the active participation of citizens, communities and all relevant stakeholders.
Dr. Matawalle made this assertion on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, when members of the National Forum of Former Legislators paid him a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
According to the Minister, safeguarding the nation goes beyond the efforts of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces alone, stressing that public cooperation, timely intelligence sharing and community vigilance are critical to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. He noted that managing national security has become increasingly complex due to evolving threats across different parts of the country.
“While public concerns and criticisms are understandable in a democratic society, it is important to situate these challenges within their proper historical and operational context,” Matawalle said.
He explained that under the current administration, the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, has continued to confront security threats through renewed strategies, enhanced inter-agency cooperation, sustained operations and capacity building, all aimed at protecting lives and securing communities.
The Minister further reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security through sustained collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government.
He emphasized that addressing Nigeria’s security challenges requires a holistic approach that combines kinetic operations with non-kinetic strategies such as intelligence sharing and effective legislative oversight.
Matawalle also underscored the importance of leveraging the experience and institutional knowledge of former legislators in shaping policies that promote peace, stability and national cohesion.
He commended the forum for its continued interest in national security issues and assured members of the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with them and other relevant institutions to ensure a safer Nigeria.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Honourable Raphael Nnanna Ibekwe, said the visit was to identify with the Ministry of Defence and commend its efforts despite the challenges it faces. He acknowledged that security is a collective responsibility and used the opportunity to call on Nigerians to support the government and security agencies in tackling emerging threats.
Ibekwe urged the Ministry to remain focused on delivering the President’s agenda and pledged the forum’s support, particularly in the area of non-kinetic approaches. He noted that the forum comprises experienced hands, including security experts, who are willing to assist in making Nigeria more secure.
He also encouraged the Minister of State for Defence to remain steadfast, adding that the forum’s visit was to show solidarity and confidence in his leadership, given his track record and credentials.
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