The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has revealed that over 8,000 terrorists and bandits were neutralised across Nigeria in 2024 under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking during an assessment of the current government's performance, Matawalle attributed the significant security progress to renewed operational strategies and the focused leadership introduced by President Tinubu.
In addition to the fatalities, he stated that security forces arrested more than 11,600 criminals and recovered over 10,000 illegal firearms from various operational zones nationwide.
This information was shared in a statement issued on Monday by Patience Ituke, on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.
Matawalle praised President Tinubu’s reform-driven leadership, saying the administration’s successes in security and other sectors could pave the way for his re-election in 2027.
The statement read in part: “Bello Matawalle lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative reforms, asserting that these initiatives will pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria and potentially secure Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.”
He highlighted the establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell as a major stride in boosting strategic coordination in the battle against kidnapping.
On the economic front, Matawalle commended the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, noting that it is already contributing to reduced grain prices and increased agricultural productivity in Northern Nigeria. He described the ministry as a tool to unlock the region's agricultural potential, drive economic growth, and empower millions of Nigerians.
In terms of infrastructure, he pointed to ongoing road construction and transport network upgrades as critical enablers of economic development, especially in underserved areas.
Matawalle’s remarks reflected confidence in President Tinubu’s reforms and leadership, suggesting that the administration's current trajectory could lead to long-term national progress and a likely second term in office.
ADEOLA KUNLE
