No fewer than 8,000 terrorists and bandits were neutralised across Nigeria in 2024 under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, says.
Speaking while reviewing the current government’s achievements, Matawalle attributed the enormous security improvements to the Tinubu administration’s revitalised operational methods and leadership concentration.
He stated that beyond the fatalities, nearly 11,600 offenders were apprehended while security personnel collected more than 10,000 illegal firearms from various theatres of operation around the country.
Patience Ituke issued a statement on Monday on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.
Matawalle stressed that the administration’s success in tackling terrorism and banditry, among other achievements of the president, would earn the president a second term in 2027.
The statement partly read, “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.
“Minister Matawalle highlighted several key achievements of President Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of security and defence.
“He noted the successful neutralisation of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the arrest of 11,600 criminals, and the recovery of more than 10,000 weapons in 2024.
“The establishment of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell has significantly enhanced strategic coordination in the fight against kidnapping.”
He also cited other Tinubu administration accomplishments, such as the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which he claims is already helping to lower grain prices and increase agricultural productivity in the North.
“Matawalle also commended the government’s economic initiatives, particularly the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development, which aims to harness the agricultural potential of the North, promote economic growth, and empower millions of citizens.
“He pointed to the recent decline in grain prices across the country as evidence of the effectiveness of the government’s agricultural policies.”
Speaking on infrastructure, he noted ongoing road construction and transportation network upgrades as key drivers of economic growth, particularly in underserved regions.
“Matawalle’s commendation of President Tinubu’s performance extends beyond these areas, reflecting his belief that the President’s reforms will have a lasting positive impact on the nation.
While he expressed confidence in Tinubu’s accomplishments, it is crucial to remember that his prediction of a second term victory in 2027 is based on the administration’s current performance.
“His optimism demonstrates Tinubu’s leadership and vision’s positive impact on the Nigerian people,” the statement read.
