By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has called on political leaders, former public office holders and community stakeholders to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to combat banditry and other security threats across the country, particularly in the North West region.

Matawalle made the appeal during an interactive session with former members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, former commissioners, special advisers and political associates who served during his administration as Governor of Zamfara State between 2019 and 2023.

The meeting, held in Kaduna, focused on security challenges, political developments and measures aimed at restoring lasting peace to affected communities.

The Minister said the protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government, noting that the Tinubu administration has prioritised the fight against banditry, terrorism and other forms of criminality. He urged participants to sensitise their constituents and communities on the Federal Government’s security initiatives and the progress being made by the nation’s security agencies.

According to Matawalle, the Federal Government has adopted a coordinated and intelligence driven approach to tackling insecurity, leading to the disruption of criminal networks, the destruction of bandits’ hideouts and the restoration of relative peace in several communities previously affected by violent attacks. He maintained that ongoing military operations and security interventions are yielding positive results across parts of the North West and other troubled regions of the country.

The Minister further stressed that improved security is essential for economic growth, agricultural productivity and social stability. He noted that many farmers have gradually returned to their farmlands in areas where security has improved, while government continues to strengthen support for military operations and intelligence gathering aimed at eliminating criminal elements.

Matawalle expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, traditional leaders and local communities would accelerate the fight against banditry and help achieve lasting peace. He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies, describing their sacrifices as critical to the nation’s security and development.