Bello Alhassan
DAILY COURIER - As part of the Federal Government's efforts to tackle insecurity in Northern Nigeria, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has reiterated that the security of the region, particularly the Northwest, remains a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. During an operations visit to Sokoto State, Dr. Matawalle met with the Executive Governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, PhD, and emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to restoring peace in the region.
At the Sokoto State Government House, Dr. Matawalle highlighted the Federal Government’s dedication to eradicating the threats posed by bandits and terrorists in Sokoto and other affected areas in the Northwest. He assured Governor Aliyu and the people of Sokoto State that the government, under President Tinubu’s leadership, is fully supporting the military in its mission to secure the region.
“The safety of the people of Sokoto, and indeed the entire Northwest, is a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The President has made it clear that we must leave no stone unturned in our efforts to restore peace. I am here today to reaffirm the Federal Government’s commitment to this cause and to assure you that our troops are receiving full backing from the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs,” Dr. Matawalle stated.
Earlier, Dr. Matawalle visited the 8 Division Headquarters, where he met with the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji, who are actively engaged in combating the region's security challenges. Accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, OFR, and other senior military officers, the Minister conveyed President Tinubu’s directive to intensify efforts to eliminate bandits and terrorists.
Dr. Matawalle praised the troops for their dedication and hard work under difficult conditions. He assured them that the Federal Government would continue to provide the necessary resources and strategic support to ensure the success of their mission. "We recognize the critical importance of security in ensuring the well-being and prosperity of our citizens. The troops are doing an incredible job, and I want to assure them that the Federal Government will continue to provide all necessary resources to ensure the success of their mission," Dr. Matawalle added.
Governor Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto expressed his gratitude for the Federal Government’s continued support in the fight against insecurity in the state. He commended President Tinubu’s directive to have security chiefs relocate to Sokoto State until peace is restored, describing the move as a sign of the administration’s seriousness in addressing the security situation.
"Hon. Minister, you are tested, trusted, and reliable, and this visit shows that insecurity will soon be over in Sokoto State and the Northwest zone. My government is fully committed to partnering with you to secure the lives and property of every citizen in this state," Governor Aliyu said. He also urged citizens to cooperate by providing accurate information to security agencies and refraining from spreading misinformation.
Governor Aliyu assured the people of Sokoto that their safety is a key priority of both the state and federal governments. “We will overcome these challenges, and together, we will secure a brighter, safer future for all Nigerians,” he concluded.
The visit was a significant step in the Federal Government’s broader plan to ensure peace and security across Northern Nigeria, reinforcing the administration's "Renewed Hope Agenda" aimed at improving the safety and livelihoods of citizens in the region.
