Don’t Crucify The Bello Matawalle’s -By Abba Dukawa

Critics calling for removal of Minister of State for Defence appear driven more by political maneuvering or power struggles than by any genuine concern for national security or the proper functioning of the Defence Ministry. Their calls intensified after a 2021 video resurfaced on social media in which Matawalle, then governor of Zamfara State, explained the nature of bandit activity—a remark he has since clarified.

Those demanding his resignation overlook the fact that, in Nigeria, the Minister of State occupies a junior role designed to support the Senior Minister, not to direct the ministry independently. No exception is made for the Minister of State for Defence.

The position of Minister of State primarily involves assisting in the implementation of defence policies, managing specific operations, representing Nigeria at international defence forums, strengthening partnerships with foreign allies, and carrying out duties assigned by the Senior Minister. It is unsurprising that some Nigerian politicians and their agents of distraction reinvent themselves by vilifying others simply to stay relevant.

Despite these attacks, the Minister of State for Defence remains committed and untethered, working diligently and sincerely to strengthen security efforts and help stabilise states that were on the brink of total anarchy. Matawalle has made notable progress in supporting President Tinubu’s renewed commitment to improving security in the Northwest, even amid occasional setbacks, and he remains a quiet but influential force.

The controversy surrounding his continued role is fueled largely by individuals driven by personal gain, whose actions reveal a striking disregard for fairness and public interest. Critics conveniently forget his achievements as governor of Zamfara State—most notably his support for security agencies, exemplified by the procurement of more than 200 Hilux vehicles for their operations.

During the kidnapping of 24 schoolgirls from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, Matawalle immediately relocated to Kebbi to oversee rescue efforts, drawing on his extensive experience in handling banditry and mass abductions.

His leadership contributed to the safe recovery of the students—just as it did in 2021 when 279 schoolgirls were rescued from Government Girls Science Secondary School in Jangebe during his governorship. Acting on President Bola Tinubu’s directive, he coordinated security operations in Kebbi, ensuring synergy across agencies and enabling a successful rescue mission.

Dr. Bello Matawalle has made significant contributions to enhancing security in the North‑West by addressing the root causes of banditry and strengthening the region’s defence infrastructure. He facilitated the deployment of additional operational vehicles to military units in Sokoto State in partnership with the state government, improving troop mobility and readiness.

He also spearheaded the establishment of three new military formations in Isa, Sabon Birni, and Goronyo strategically located to reinforce security in some of the most affected areas. Representing Nigeria at international defence platforms, Matawalle led the delegation to the IDEF Defence Exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey, where he engaged global defence partners and advanced military collaboration efforts.

This marked a critical step in boosting Nigeria’s operational readiness against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram. He has also remained a strong advocate for local defence manufacturing, reinforcing Nigeria’s drive toward self‑reliance.

Notable achievements include the production of 20 locally‑manufactured Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs) by EPAIL Nigeria, five Hulk Mine‑Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles by Proforce Nigeria, and specialized “mountain‑climber” Military Motorcycles designed for rugged terrain. These innovations significantly strengthen Nigeria’s reconnaissance and counter‑terrorism capabilities.

Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has signed a landmark agreement with a leading Chinese defence manufacturer to strengthen the country’s military capabilities. The deal emphasizes technology transfer, local production of high‑grade military equipment, and advanced technical training for Nigerian defence personnel. This partnership is designed to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign arms imports, enhance national security, and support regional stability. It also forms a key part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to modernise its defence sector and achieve greater self‑reliance in military production.

There was a massive leap forward for Nigeria’s defence sector! Under Dr. Matawalle’s stewardship, DICON was overhauled in 2023 into a public‑private model, opening the door for private capital, subsidiaries and a research hub to begin producing small arms, protective gear and drones locally. The DICON Act of 2023 not only reshaped its structure but also paved the way for major collaborations such as the $2 billion joint venture with SP Offshore Nigeria Limited—to manufacture everything from ammunition to advanced UAVs. All of this is aimed at slashing import reliance, creating jobs and positioning Nigeria as a future exporter of defence technology across Africa.

If we are serious about defeating bandits, terrorists and kidnappers, Nigeria needs leaders who evolve, innovate and stand firmly with our soldiers and communities. The security crisis demands unity and strategic engagement—not symbolic outrage over past statements or decisions. We must focus on what is being done today and what will be done tomorrow.

If Matawalle falters now, we should speak up, but we must not sacrifice hard‑won progress for political maneuvering or power struggles. The insecurity plaguing Nigeria requires solutions, not the blackmailing of those who are doing their best to tame the monster.

Yet, despite these achievements, critics refuse to acknowledge his role in combating banditry and other forms of insecurity across the North‑West, including operations that have lowered kidnapping incidents and neutralised key bandit leaders. President Tinubu, however, has commended Matawalle’s leadership, recognising his pivotal contributions to advancing national security.

Dukawa is a journalist, public‑affairs analyst, and political commentator. He can be reached at abbahydukawa@gmail.com.