The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, visited Sokoto State on Wednesday as part of the Federal Government’s renewed efforts to tackle banditry and terrorism in the North-West region.
This visit, ordered by President Bola Tinubu, follows Matawalle’s earlier trip on August 31, which he undertook alongside Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Christopher Musa.
During his address to the media, Matawalle reaffirmed the Nigerian Government’s commitment to eradicating banditry in the North-West. “As directed by Mr. President, I am back for the second time in Sokoto State to coordinate this significant assignment aimed at flushing out all bandits and criminals,” he stated.
The minister highlighted some achievements, including the elimination of notorious gang leaders and the establishment of relative peace in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina states. “I am optimistic that our gallant troops will sustain their momentum and continue to achieve success through the ongoing ‘Fansan Yamma’ operations against these criminals,” he added.
Matawalle assured citizens that the Nigerian Government would maintain its offensive until the North-West and the entire country are free from criminal activities. “We will never leave you alone and are committed to winning this war against bandits and their supporters,” he emphasized.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices of military personnel and other security agencies in combating insecurity, expressing appreciation for their efforts. Matawalle commended Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu for his support of security initiatives and called on other governors in the North-West to collaborate with the Nigerian Government in the fight against insecurity.
“We must work together to defeat these bandits using both kinetic and non-kinetic methods,” he urged, promising that the government would not be intimidated or distracted from its mission to secure the lives and property of citizens. “We will never allow criminals any breathing space,” he concluded.
