Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will record a stronger electoral performance in the North in next year’s presidential election.
Matawalle said President Tinubu remains politically strong, especially in the Northwest and continues to enjoy the confidence of many residents due to his administration’s efforts in addressing insecurity and driving development.
In a statement yesterday by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, the minister said no amount of propaganda, misinformation, or politically- motivated attacks would distract the President from delivering on his mandate.
Matawalle said the achievements of the Tinubu administration would continue to resonate with Nigerians, who, according to him, are witnessing improvements in security, livelihoods and economic opportunities.
He accused some opposition elements, particularly in the Northwest, of spreading false narratives and exaggerating security challenges in an attempt to undermine the achievements of the Tinubu administration.
According to him, critics of the government have deliberately ignored progress made in tackling insecurity while focusing on isolated incidents to create fear and political tension.
Matawalle argued that the opposition was uncomfortable with what he described as visible gains in the fight against insecurity and ongoing developmental efforts across the country.
The minister commended security agencies for their dedication and sacrifices in defending the nation, noting that many personnel have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
He said the Tinubu administration had adopted a more coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to combating insecurity, particularly in the Northwest states of Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Kebbi.
According to him, the strategy has led to the neutralisation of several notorious bandit leaders and the destruction of criminal hideouts across the region.
The minister also said the Renewed Hope Agenda was producing positive results in key sectors, including security, infrastructure, agriculture, social investment and economic reforms.
He highlighted the federal government’s interventions in North, including road rehabilitation projects, support for agricultural value chains, food security initiatives, investments in rail and energy infrastructure, and programmes aimed at empowering youths and women.