Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has revealed that security forces neutralised more than 8,000 terrorists and armed criminals across Nigeria in 2024, attributing the achievement to the renewed military strategies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.
During a review of the administration’s progress, Matawalle praised the improved coordination and direction in Nigeria’s security architecture, which he said has significantly strengthened efforts against insurgency, banditry, and other criminal threats nationwide.
According to a statement released Monday by Patience Ituke on behalf of the Ministry of Defence’s Director of Information and Public Relations, the minister also disclosed that over 11,600 suspects were apprehended during security operations, and more than 10,000 illegal weapons were recovered.
Matawalle expressed strong confidence in President Tinubu’s performance, stating that the administration’s visible successes, especially in security and defence, could pave the way for his re-election in 2027.
The statement read in part: “Minister Matawalle commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold and transformative initiatives, particularly in the security sector, where thousands of criminals have been neutralised or arrested, and thousands of weapons have been confiscated from criminal elements.”
He also highlighted the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, which he said has significantly improved inter-agency coordination in combating kidnapping and related crimes.
Beyond the gains in national security, Matawalle applauded the government’s broader development agenda, pointing to the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a major step toward reviving agriculture in northern Nigeria. He credited the ministry with helping to stabilise grain prices and enhance food production.
“The economic benefits of the new Ministry of Livestock Development are already being felt,” the statement noted. “By supporting agricultural growth in the North, the government is creating jobs and improving livelihoods for millions of Nigerians.”
Matawalle also referenced major infrastructure projects currently underway, including road and transport upgrades, as further evidence of the administration’s commitment to inclusive economic development.
He concluded by expressing optimism about the future, asserting that President Tinubu’s policies are not only addressing immediate challenges but also laying the foundation for long-term prosperity. He maintained that if the current momentum is sustained, it could secure public support for Tinubu’s second term in office.
