Northern stakeholders urges Tinubu to retain Matawalle

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to Mohammed Bello Matawale, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, following the recent resignation of Abubakar Badaru, former Minister of Defence.

The group, in a statement signed by Yerima Shettima, its convener, said it considered it important to reaffirm Matawalle’s value to the administration, especially in the area of national security and regional stability. According to the NSCI, the minister has remained “a key figure” in ongoing security initiatives in Northern Nigeria and has continued to enjoy broad support within the region.

The organisation noted that Matawalle’s role in coordinating federal security efforts has contributed to improved confidence among local communities, adding that his engagements with stakeholders have strengthened collaboration between the federal government and regional actors.

NSCI described Matawale as “a steady pillar” within the administration, arguing that his continuity would help sustain current security gains and ensure stability ahead of ongoing national development efforts. The group stated that the current period, marked by complex security challenges, requires consistency in leadership and ongoing consolidation of defence strategies.

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They also highlighted the importance of maintaining unity and reinforcing public trust in government institutions. NSCI urged the president to continue supporting officials who have demonstrated commitment to governance, security, and community welfare.

“We believe that retaining experienced hands is essential to the progress being recorded across various sectors,” Shettima said, noting that the minister’s contributions remain valuable to both the administration and the region.

The group further encouraged the public and the media to remain focused on constructive national discourse, emphasising the need for collective responsibility in addressing the country’s security challenges.

NSCI reaffirmed its readiness to continue working with government and relevant stakeholders to strengthen peace and development efforts across Northern Nigeria.

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