MATAWALLE: AN AUGUST VISITOR IN DECEMBER
The former Governor of Zamfara State and now Honourable Minister of State for Defence (HMOSD) His Excellency (Dr.) Bello Muhammad Matawalle (Shattiman Sokoto) stormed the Zamfara state capital Gusau on Friday 20th December, 2024 and was warmly received by APC (All Progressives Congress) stakeholders and stalwarts led by his Special Adviser on Political Matters Hon. Ibrahim Maigandi (Danmalikin Gidan Goga) as well as other well-wishers. The atmosphere was electric with excitement and heavy jubilations as elated residents came out in their thousands on the streets of Gusau, chanting solidarity songs, raising placards, and cheering loudly to express their support and admiration for Matawalle.
The 6-day visit was not just an ostentatious display of a large number of supporters across Zamfara, it was a visit with deeper significance, which aimed to foster genuine connections and understanding. Matawalle spent the first 3 days in Gusau the state capital and the last 3 days in his hometown of Maradun engaging community leaders to address complex security challenges and explore avenues for boosting the state’s overall security infrastructure. He also engaged party stakeholders and stalwarts, visited associates, and paid condolence visits to bereaved families.
Matawalle took the opportunity to effectively enlighten the public on the federal government’s developmental policies, which are often misunderstood. He highlighted that the economic policies introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are designed to foster economic growth, stability, and prosperity. Furthermore, he has laid out strategic future development programmes tailored to meet the specific needs of Zamfara, focusing on areas such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, mining, and economic empowerment, thereby setting a clear path for sustainable development and progress in the region.
While his presence has signalled the federal government’s commitment to supporting Zamfara in its fight against insecurity, fostering a sense of hope and reassurance among the residents, the HMOSD’s visit has also brought numerous rewarding benefits. He has announced several initiatives to enhance the capabilities of local security forces, as well as potential investments in infrastructure and community development projects, contributing to a more promising outlook for the state’s future.
Matawalle has facilitated the award of a contract to Messr Dara Homes by the Federal Ministry of Health for the Infrastructure Upgrade of Maradun General Hospital to the tune of N1,303,649,663.82 (One Billion, Three Hundred and Three Million Six Hundred and Forty-nine Thousand, Six Hundred and Sixty-three Naira and Eighty-two Kobo) only. He has also secured another approval for the award of contract for the Provision of Office Furniture at General Hospital Maradun at the contract sum of N208,816,331.25 (Two Hundred and Eight Million Eight Hundred and Sixteen Thousand Three Hundred and Thirty-one Naira and Twenty-five Kobo) only, with a completion period of three months.
The security efforts led by the HMOSD have been comprehensive and diligent, focusing on enhancing national safety and ensuring that defensive measures are robust and adaptive to emerging threats. To minimise the regional overstretch of the security operatives, Matawalle has facilitated the establishment of a Naval Military Base at Ranji in Maradun, which is now awaiting the Zamfara State Government’s authorisation to use RUGA (Rural Grazing Areas) and part of Bakolori Dam for the project. Once the State Government approves the use of such facilities, the Federal Ministry of Defence has since completed all arrangements for the Naval Military Base to take its proper shape in Zamfara.
Through strategic planning, increased investments in technology, and strengthened international alliances, the HMOSD has been working tirelessly to protect the nation and its citizens from both traditional and modern security challenges, ensuring a stable and secure environment for all its citizens. Looking at the trajectory of Matawalle’s excellent feat in giving the Nigerian military a lift, it is worthy of note to mention some of the key milestones he has achieved across select defence agencies he supervises:
* Through strategic initiatives and visionary leadership, the HMOSD has enhanced the operational capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to effectively address various challenges.
* The HMOSD has conducted inspections of foreign facilities contracted to produce defence equipment for the AFN. These visits have expedited equipment delivery and improved transparency and accountability in defence expenditure. Key acquisitions include TB2 drones from Turkey for the Army; OPV 76 vessels from Turkey for the Navy; and Six T129 ATAK helicopters from Turkey for the Air Force among others.
* The HMOSD has been instrumental in boosting crude oil production by directing increased maritime patrols. As a result, crude oil production rose from 1.08 million barrels per day in July 2023 to 1.72 million barrels per day as of September 2023.
* Through collaboration-focused policies, the Nigerian Navy and other maritime stakeholders have enhanced surveillance efforts using systems like Falcon Eye and the Regional Maritime Awareness Capability. These measures have significantly reduced oil theft, piracy, hijacking, and sea robbery, positioning Nigeria as the second-largest crude oil producer in OPEC’s latest rankings.
* The HMOSD has advanced the Defence Industrial Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) Bill, which aims to enable joint production ventures with foreign defence industries. This legislation enhances DICON’s role in manufacturing, storing, and managing ordnance.
* Under the HMOSD’s leadership, DICON has been expanding the production of Small Arms and Light Weapons through partnerships with local companies. This initiative reduces production timelines, lowers defence costs, and builds public trust.
* In another significant achievement, more than 20 locally manufactured Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were produced to strengthen the operational capacity of the Nigerian Armed Forces. This milestone highlights the HMOSD’s commitment to bolstering national security through domestic manufacturing.
* The HMOSD supervising the Military Pension Board, has integrated families of deceased AFN members into the President’s Palliative Scheme. This initiative, in partnership with the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, provides cash transfers, soft loans, and grants, ensuring the welfare of beneficiaries.
The list is endless… and this approach underscores the HMOSD’s dedication to advancing defence capabilities, improving veteran welfare, and fostering transparency in governance.
However, in his direct engagement with several communities during the August visit, Matawalle has been able to address local pressing issues encouraging unity and collaboration among the citizens. He has played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the APC in the state, breathing new life into the party and its loyalists through active engagement and comprehensive strategies. His leadership has not only been instrumental in restoring hope among party members but has also positively impacted the lives of many citizens.
During engagements with grassroot politicians and community leaders, Matawalle generously supported various groups and organisations in many respects. By allocating resources and providing assistance to these entities, the August Visitor has improved community welfare and development. His efforts have included offering financial aid, directly and indirectly empowering local businesses. By advocating for these causes, the August Visitor has played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for many individuals, fostering a sense of hope in his native town of Maradun and Zamfara at large.
Dr. Jalaludeen Maradun Maradun, Ph.D.