The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has expressed disapproval over recent comments made by Dr. Babachir Lawal, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, regarding President Bola Tinubu’s presidential ambitions for 2027.
In a statement released by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Henshaw Ogubike, on Monday in Abuja, Matawalle stated that Lawal’s remarks about the president’s re-election bid were misplaced and unfounded.
He argued that Tinubu has made significant strides in governance, and that the president would enjoy overwhelming support from the North.
Matawalle highlighted that President Tinubu had introduced key reforms across various sectors, including security, the economy, infrastructure, and governance, all of which have positively impacted the nation.
He pointed to the president’s successful efforts in improving security in the country, with the security forces neutralising over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, arresting 11,600 criminals, and recovering more than 10,000 weapons in 2024 alone.
These actions have significantly improved safety across the Northern region, Matawalle said, adding that the rescue of about 8,000 kidnap victims further underscores the administration’s commitment to securing the nation’s citizens.
Additionally, the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) in collaboration with the UK’s National Crime Agency in December 2024 has strengthened the nation’s capacity to tackle kidnapping.
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From an economic perspective, Matawalle pointed to the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which is focused on tapping into the North’s agricultural potential.
He said the initiative aims to boost economic growth and empower millions, particularly women and youth in the region, with a focus on food security.
The recent decline in grain prices was also cited as evidence of the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies.
In terms of infrastructure, Matawalle highlighted several key projects in the North, including road construction and the improvement of transportation networks, which are essential to economic growth.
He also commended the decentralisation of power through local government autonomy, which has ensured more effective governance and accountability at the grassroots level.
Matawalle made it clear that despite being in office for only 19 months, President Tinubu had already made significant contributions across all regions of Nigeria, including the North, and would continue to enjoy the unwavering support of the people in the region.
“The North remains steadfast in its support for President Tinubu, any attempt to suggest otherwise is a deliberate move to sow discord and destabilise our national security. We must assess the tangible benefits of the president’s efforts and support him as he strives for a more prosperous and secure Nigeria.” Matawalle stated.
Matawalle concluded by calling on critics to evaluate Tinubu’s record objectively and to unite in their support for the president’s vision for the nation.
“Our support for President Tinubu is unwavering and unshakeable, We stand firmly behind his efforts to build a prosperous and secure Nigeria.” he said.
