The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, on Tuesday dismissed criticism against President Bola Tinubu, declaring that the administration’s security performance will ultimately determine the outcome of the 2027 presidential election and leave opponents disappointed.
The retreat had in attendance leaders of community groups, associations and ambassadors drawn from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara and Kaduna states.
Addressing participants at a Contact and Sensitisation Retreat organised by the North-West Tinubu/Matawalle Peace and Unity Initiatives in Sokoto, Matawalle maintained that the President’s record in tackling Nigeria’s challenges would outweigh what he described as propaganda by political opponents.
“Those attacking President Tinubu with lies and propaganda will be disappointed.
“His achievements and commitment to national development will speak for themselves in 2027,” Matawalle said.
He continued, “It is unfortunate that some individuals have chosen to spread misinformation and negative narratives despite the administration’s efforts to promote unity, peace and progress.
“Our youths must reject falsehood and focus on initiatives that promote national development, peace and social harmony.”
Matawalle argued that the Tinubu’s led administration had pursued policies aimed at addressing insecurity, reviving the economy and strengthening critical sectors despite inheriting significant governance and security challenges.
“President Tinubu inherited serious security and governance challenges, but he has shown courage and determination in addressing them. His administration continues to invest in security, infrastructure, education and human capital development,” he said.
Matawalle further noted that the expansion of the operational capacity of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, has resulted in what he described as notable successes against insecurity, particularly across Northern Nigeria.
Nigeria has witnessed a sustained wave of insecurity in recent years, with incidents of kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks continuing to claim lives across the country.
The latest victim was retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, the former spokesman of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, who died in captivity after gunmen abducted him.
(The Whistler)