In 2024, Dr. Bello Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, has become a central figure in the nation’s fight against insecurity, particularly in addressing the rise of banditry. His unique combination of military experience, leadership, and commitment to national security has made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s defense industry and its security apparatus, as well as his home state of Zamfara.
Appointed in August 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Matawalle quickly made his presence felt in the Ministry of Defence. As a military man and former governor, his comprehensive understanding of security challenges, particularly those affecting northern Nigeria, has informed the steps he has taken to modernize and strengthen the country’s defense capabilities. He has tirelessly worked on improving the welfare of military personnel, securing timely pensions and allowances, which has been crucial for boosting the morale and readiness of the armed forces. His efforts are aimed at ensuring that those who serve and protect the country are not only equipped with state-of-the-art weapons but also feel valued for their dedication.
One of Matawalle’s key contributions has been his focus on promoting indigenous defense solutions. By engaging local manufacturers and defense contractors, he has worked towards reducing Nigeria’s dependence on foreign suppliers. This initiative has not only ensured that the country’s armed forces are better equipped but also spurred local innovation, creating cost-effective solutions suited to Nigeria’s unique security challenges. His strategic approach to defense procurement is focused on building long-term resilience and ensuring that Nigeria’s military remains agile, adaptable, and self-sufficient.
Matawalle’s impact as a leader extends beyond the corridors of the Ministry of Defence. His tenure as the governor of Zamfara State, which he served from 2019 to 2023, was marked by his hands-on approach to addressing the state’s worsening security situation, particularly the threat of banditry that ravaged the northwest region. Under his leadership, Zamfara became one of the focal points for tackling banditry in Nigeria, a challenge that has seen the loss of countless lives and the disruption of local economies.
His administration took bold steps to address the rising tide of violence. While many leaders opted for a more militarized approach, Matawalle’s strategy was multi-faceted, combining military action with dialogue and peace-building efforts. Understanding that security is not only about military might but also about community engagement, Matawalle initiated talks with local communities, ensuring that residents had a voice in securing their environment. His work on creating a framework for lasting peace, alongside collaborating with military forces, law enforcement, and local leaders, helped reduce the frequency of violent attacks and paved the way for more sustainable security solutions in the region.
Matawalle’s military background was critical in informing these decisions. A former military man himself, he understands firsthand the challenges of combating armed groups. His focus on strengthening security agencies and making them more efficient in responding to emergencies has been an ongoing priority since his transition into the role of Minister of State for Defence. He has tirelessly advocated for greater intelligence sharing among security agencies, emphasizing the need for a more coordinated response to the growing threat of insurgency, terrorism, and organized crime in the country. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s security agencies have been able to build better networks, share intelligence more effectively, and enhance their operational capacity.
His approach to tackling banditry reflects the understanding that the fight against insecurity requires a nuanced, long-term strategy. While military operations are crucial, Matawalle also focuses on addressing the underlying causes of conflict, such as poverty, unemployment, and a lack of basic infrastructure, which often drive individuals to join criminal gangs. By advocating for socio-economic programs that create opportunities for youth and improving local governance, he aims to ensure that people are less likely to be lured into criminal activities.
Matawalle’s leadership as Minister of State for Defence is characterized by transparency, accountability, and a deep understanding of both national and local security needs. His actions have not only shaped Nigeria’s military capabilities but have also served to reframe the nation’s approach to security, recognizing that security is a shared responsibility between the government, the military, and the people. His leadership in the Ministry of Defence has shown that real progress in national security is achieved through a combination of strong policies, investment in the right infrastructure, and a commitment to fostering peace at the grassroots level.
Dr. Bello Matawalle’s dedication to his role as Minister of State for Defence and his ongoing work in combating banditry and strengthening the defense industry are a testament to his commitment to the safety and security of Nigeria. His efforts reflect a vision of a secure and prosperous nation, where the military and citizens work together to face shared challenges. As he continues to drive reforms within the Ministry of Defence and the broader security landscape, Matawalle is poised to leave a profound and lasting legacy in Nigeria’s quest for peace and stability.
