The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, and Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, have reaffirmed that restoring peace and security across Nigeria remains the top priority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
This was contained in a statement signed by Matawalle’s Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, and made available to journalists in Abuja.
The ministers spoke on Tuesday during an operational visit to Maiduguri, Borno State, where they assessed the evolving security situation, particularly the resurgence of insurgent activities in the North-East.
They were received at the Nigerian Air Force Base in Maiduguri by the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General A.E. Abubakar, alongside other senior military officers.
The ministers first visited the palace of the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, where they commiserated with the people of the state.
“We are here to commiserate with the Government and people of Borno State, and to directly assess the situation on the ground,” the ministers said.
“With your continued support and prayers, we are confident that lasting peace and stability will be achieved.”
They assured the monarch of the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring security across the region.
In his response, the Shehu of Borno appreciated the visit, highlighting the cross-border nature of the security challenges and pledging the continued support of the Borno Emirate Council to military operations.
The ministers also visited the Borno State Government House, where they were received by the Deputy Governor, Umar Kadafur Usman, on behalf of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.
They commiserated with the state government and residents, while commending the administration’s sustained support for military operations.
Usman, in turn, praised the Federal Government and the Armed Forces for their resilience and sacrifices, and extended condolences over the loss of military personnel in the line of duty.
The delegation later paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the Military Cemetery in Maimalari Cantonment, honouring officers and men who died defending the nation.
At the Theatre Command Headquarters, the ministers received an operational briefing and inspected the Command and Control Centre.
They also commissioned newly renovated Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ and Combat Battalion Quarters within the facility.
Addressing troops, the ministers conveyed President Tinubu’s message, commending their courage and dedication.
They charged the troops to redouble their efforts towards securing lasting peace in Borno State, the North-East, and the country at large.