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Why Matawalle Deserves Minister of the Year 2024
As the year draws to a close, organizations, groups, and media outlets traditionally reflect on the events and personalities that defined the past 12 months. They evaluate who and what dominated the headlines, considering why these stories matter, even as they look ahead to the coming year.
For Nigerians, one topic certain to attract scrutiny is the performance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ministers in 2024. Some have been commended and honoured, others have been censured and received the accompanying opprobrium. They failed callously and deserve it. Some Ministers have notable towered the ranks in their deliveries, others have stayed at the baseline—a good number have not even risen to the baseline, they are below it.
One Minister has stood out above the ranks of his peers, defying naysayers and delivering far above his brief. He is Dr. Bello Matawalle Maradun, the former Governor of Zamfara state, and current serving Minister of State Defense. He has been defiant of his critics, bullish in his approach, touch in his execution and swift in his delivery.
In the past 15 months since his appointment, Dr. Matawalle has proven himself a tough cookie. His journey, however, has not been without challenges: A myriad of accusations were made on his appointment. His detractors stopped at nothing to give him a bad name: Protests were staged, sponsored statements were engineered and TV appearances calling him all sorts were put up.
His chief detractor was none other than his predecessor: Dauda Lawal, the current Governor of Zamfara state has been on every major television station promoting a negative agenda against Dr. Matawalle. At some point he became an irritant: what was a serious governor doing on television in Abuja, accusing his predecessors of failure yet having nothing to show for his over a year in office.
But Matawalle has been good match for his critics.
Despite these distractions, Dr. Matawalle has remained focused and delivered extraordinary results. Within a year, he has set unprecedented benchmarks in defence diplomacy, civil-military relations, and the advancement of Nigeria’s defence industry.
Under his watch, Dr. Matawalle facilitated the signing of an MoU between the Defense industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), which he supervises and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) for the establishment of a Military Industrial Complex (MIC) for indigenous hardware production for the Nigerian armed forces. This complex is expected to produce weapons, ammunition and other equipment for our Armed Forces. This move marked the revival of DICON after several years of being moribund. Asides the empowerment of home grown technology and the creation of millions of local jobs, which ultimately are forging an unprecedented defense self-sufficiency for Nigeria, this agreement would be saving the country millions of dollars in foreign exchange that would ordinarily have been spent on purchasing these ammunitions from abroad.
Dr. Bello Matawalle, has also revolutionized Nigeria’s military pensions system by introducing a digitized verification process for military retirees. Historically, verification exercises required pensioners or their next of kin to travel to designated locations for physical verification, often a long journey with tens of hours of travel time. Under Dr. Matawalle’s the Military Pensions Board has deployed an electronic solution that enables pensioners, both within Nigeria and abroad, to authenticate their status using international passports, National Identity Numbers (NIN), or driver’s licenses. This innovation not only eliminates the need for arduous travel but also ensures the seamless and efficient administration of retirement benefits.
In September 2024, Dr. Matawalle took the battle against terrorists and bandits to their doorstep when he led Service Chiefs to the North Western parts of the country to deliver an onslaught against criminals hiding in forests and terrorising the people of the region. Like a warrior, he returned to Abuja with trophies. Within one month over six major bandit leaders had been eliminated alongside hundreds of their fighters. The relative peace and calm being enjoyed in the region is the result of this feat.
His efforts at defence diplomacy has also not escaped the eyes of historians. Take his most recent visit to Saudi Arabia to attend a strategic meeting of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC). With this visit, Dr. Matawalle secured critical support for the country’s counterterrorism efforts. The engagement yielded commitments for enhanced training, intelligence sharing, and the localization of modern technologies to bolster Nigeria’s military capabilities.
In all these, it is worth mentioning that Dr. Bello Matawalle is in fact the Minister of State for Defence, and not the substantive Minister. He is leading from a less than advantaged position, yet putting up a show of exemplary leadership, statesmanly charisma, excellence and exceptional capacity even against all odds.
It is why Dr. Bello Matawalle is fitting for the 2024 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Minister of the year 2024. For his resilience, his impact and results as Minister, his dedication to country, his sense of innovation and leadership, the cap fits his head.
Akinloye James is the President of the Initiative to Save Democracy, he writes from Abuja.
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
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