Only God Can Resolve Nigeria’s Security Challenges – Matawalle

Minister of State for Defence Bello Muhammad Matawalle said that only God can ultimately end Nigeria’s security challenges.

In an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a national problem that demands cooperation from all Nigerians. He urged citizens to support security forces and to pray for peace.

The minister cautioned politicians against exploiting security issues for political gain, noting that insecurity affects every Nigerian, regardless of political affiliation or religion.

“It’s disheartening, and we must all rise to ensure that security agencies and Nigerians work together to end insecurity in the country. Insecurity does not discriminate based on political affiliation or religion. It can affect anyone,” he said.

“That is why we have urged the opposition to stop using insecurity to incite people. It is a challenge that can happen to anyone, and no Nigerian is happy about it. Unfortunately, some members of the opposition appear pleased with the situation.”

“They do not care about the people. What matters to them is portraying the government as a failure for their own political interests and deceiving people into believing they alone can end insecurity.”

“It is only God that can bring to an end to this insecurity, alongside our collective prayers and efforts. It should not be used as a tool to condemn others or score political points,” he added.

The minister said that some opposition figures have used insecurity to criticize the government instead of supporting efforts to address the problem.

Matawalle also alleged that old and misleading videos are being circulated on social media to portray President Bola Tinubu’s administration as failing to tackle insecurity.

He explained that some of the videos shared online were recorded during previous administrations or in other countries, such as Burkina Faso and Mali, but are being presented as recent incidents in Nigeria.

The minister maintained that security operatives are working tirelessly across the country to combat terrorism and other forms of criminality, adding that insecurity is a global challenge that cannot be eliminated overnight.

Matawalle appealed to Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies and praying for the restoration of peace across the country.

His comments come amid renewed security concerns following recent attacks and abductions in parts of Nigeria, including Oyo and Borno states.