The Arewa Youth Yearn for Good Governance Forum has praised the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, for what it described as energetic and results-driven leadership since he assumed office on 21 August 2023.
The commendation was conveyed in a statement by the group’s Secretary, Mustapha Usman, on Tuesday.
Usman said Matawalle had strengthened operational coordination within the Ministry of Defence, noting his frontline presence during an operational visit to Sokoto, where he urged intensified action against bandit enclaves and boosted troop morale.
He said the minister’s oversight had also revived activities at the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, with governing board engagements and strategic meetings aimed at expanding local defence production and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
According to him, ongoing security operations have yielded measurable results, including the neutralisation of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Halilu Sububu — a development that he said had disrupted criminal networks and improved community safety.
Usman added that the coordinated response that led to the rescue of schoolgirls abducted from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State demonstrated effective command and interagency cooperation.
He further noted that recent ministry initiatives to improve logistics, medical coverage and welfare for service personnel reflected an understanding that sustained operational gains depend on the wellbeing of those in uniform.
“Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle has brought steady energy and purpose to national defence. His frontline visits, oversight of DICON and the operational gains recorded under his watch have delivered tangible security benefits to northern communities,” Usman said.
“Sustained investment in local defence production, troop welfare and coordinated operations is essential. Continued support for these reforms will deepen gains already achieved and deny criminal enclaves any chance to regroup,” he added.