A prominent northern group has made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to retain Mohammed Bello Matawalle as the Minister of State for Defence. This call comes in the wake of the recent resignation of the former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.
NSCI Makes Case for Matawalle's Continuity
In a statement released on 3 December 2025, the Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) strongly advocated for Matawalle's continued service. The group's convener, Yerima Shettima, signed the statement, which emphasized the minister's significant value to the current administration.
The NSCI described Matawalle as "a key figure" in driving security initiatives across Northern Nigeria. They argued that his role has been instrumental in coordinating federal security efforts, which has, in turn, boosted confidence among local communities facing various threats.
A Pillar for Security and Regional Stability
The organisation highlighted that Matawalle's active engagement with stakeholders has strengthened collaboration between the federal government and regional actors. They credited him with being "a steady pillar" within the administration whose work is crucial for sustaining recent security gains.
The NSCI's statement pointed out that the current period is marked by complex security challenges. They believe that consistency in leadership and the ongoing consolidation of defence strategies are non-negotiable for progress. Retaining experienced officials like Matawalle, they contend, is essential for maintaining stability as the nation pursues broader development goals.
Call for Unity and Support Against Misinformation
Beyond the appeal for retention, the group's message carried a broader call for national unity and constructive discourse. The NSCI urged the public and the media to focus on collective responsibility in tackling the country's security issues.
They specifically addressed what they termed "campaigns of calumny" against Minister Matawalle, stating that such narratives do not reflect the reality on the ground. "It is essential that we rally behind leaders who have demonstrated their commitment to the welfare and security of our communities," Shettima said, warning against unfounded allegations and misinformation.
The group reaffirmed its readiness to collaborate with the government and other stakeholders to bolster peace and development efforts in Northern Nigeria. They concluded by imploring the President to recognize the mischief aimed at the minister and to take decisive action to ensure leadership continuity in the defence sector.
