he Democracy and Good Governance group has lauded Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, MON, for his bold and strategic approach in confronting the country’s growing security challenges.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the group’s spokesperson, Mr Daniel Samuel, praised Dr Matawalle for bringing “a strategic, action-oriented approach” to the defence ministry since his appointment, marking what it described as a turning point in Nigeria’s internal security management.
The group highlighted Dr Matawalle’s direct engagement in frontline military operations and his hands-on supervision of internal security efforts, noting that his leadership has led to tangible results across volatile regions.
“Under Dr Matawalle’s watch, military operations in the North-West, North-East, and other hotspots have recorded significant gains,” the statement read. “Improved coordination, smarter deployment of tactical assets, and strengthened inter-agency collaboration have led to a noticeable reduction in insurgent attacks, kidnappings, and related crimes.”
The organisation also commended the Minister’s shift towards intelligence-led operations and increased community engagement, which have helped security agencies to pre-empt threats more effectively.
Dr Matawalle’s efforts to bolster civil-military relations and invest in local early warning systems were also praised, with the group noting these moves have helped restore public confidence in government-led security initiatives.
The Minister’s advocacy for better welfare for military personnel has not gone unnoticed. According to the statement, improved funding, enhanced living conditions in military barracks, and timely disbursement of operational allowances have contributed to boosting troop morale amid persistent security challenges.
On the international front, Dr Matawalle has reportedly intensified Nigeria’s defence diplomacy, especially through cooperation with neighbouring countries to tackle cross-border threats such as arms smuggling and terrorism.
“His leadership reflects a broader national agenda centred on peace, order, and restoring trust in the state’s ability to protect lives and property,” the group added.
The group urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces and other security institutions, stressing that “lasting peace requires national unity – and with leaders like Dr Matawalle at the helm, Nigeria is steadily reclaiming its security.”