Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has expressed optimism that Nigeria will soon overcome its insecurity challenges, saying the Federal Government is stepping up security operations and implementing measures aimed at restoring lasting peace nationwide.
Matawalle made the remarks on Monday in Kano during a condolence and assessment visit to the state government following the August 29 bandit attack on Chiroma village in Garun Mallam Local Government Area, Arise News reported.
The minister said the government was adopting proactive security operations, strategic planning and increased cooperation with state governments to address the country’s security challenges.
He maintained that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was determined to defeat insecurity and provide Nigerians with a safer environment.
“The president has set up a committee to formulate a five-year defence and security strategy. The plan will provide a framework for addressing security threats across the country over the long term,” Matawalle said.
He disclosed that security forces had commenced a joint operation in response to the attack, under the leadership of Brigadier General Saka Jimoh, Commander of the 3 Brigade, Kano.
According to Matawalle, personnel from the Joint Task Force based at the Hawan-Kwano and Kwanar Dangora camps took part in the operation, resulting in the rescue of several kidnapped victims around the Yan-Kifi Bridge and Marabar Kwari areas of Garun Mallam LGA.
The minister praised the troops for their efforts and assured that the Federal Government would continue improving the operational capacity of the armed forces and other security agencies.
He noted that tackling insecurity would require continuous collaboration between the federal, state and local governments, alongside active involvement from citizens who can provide useful information to security agencies.
“We will continue to provide every necessary support to our security agencies to keep the country safe. I am confident that insecurity will soon become a thing of the past, allowing Nigerians to live in peace and prosperity,” Matawalle said.
Matawalle also promised further Federal Government assistance to Kano State, including fighting vehicles, weapons and other operational equipment to enhance security operations across the state.
He later held a closed-door meeting with commanders of the 3 Brigade and other security formations in Kano, where he directed them to maintain their ongoing operations and intensify efforts to protect communities.
According to the minister, the Federal Government would continue supplying the necessary resources and support to protect lives and property while defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, appreciated Matawalle for the visit and reiterated the state government’s readiness to work alongside the Federal Government to strengthen security across Kano.
“We have confidence in your leadership. At the state level, we will continue to take the necessary steps to promote security and maintain stability in Kano,” Yusuf said.
“We have taken note of the President’s commitment to strengthening security in Nigeria, and we will work to ensure that insecurity does not persist in our domain.”