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Amid the escalating insecurity in the North-West, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle arrived in Sokoto State on a mission to rally troops against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Accompanied by Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, and other senior military officials, Matawalle's visit underscores the government's resolve to restore peace in the region.
Expressing deep concern over terrorists' and bandits' persistent activities in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi States, Matawalle vowed that the security forces would leave no stone unturned in their fight to eliminate these threats.
"We are determined to flush out the bandits and ensure the safety of our people," he asserted.
The Defence Minister's visit is seen as a critical step in boosting the morale of the troops stationed in the region.
READ ALSO: FG sends Matawalle, Defence Chiefs to Sokoto to flush out Turji, other bandits
His presence, alongside top military leaders, is expected to enhance the operational capabilities of the ground forces.
Reiterating President Bola Tinubu's commitment to eradicating terrorism, Matawalle emphasised that the government would not rest until peace and security were fully restored in the affected areas.
The move is anticipated to significantly impact the ongoing efforts to curb the rising tide of violence in the North West.
NOWAP lauds Tinubu’s security push in North West
Meanwhile, the North West Agenda for Peace (NOWAP) has commended President Tinubu for his commitment to addressing the security crisis in the region.
NOWAP expressed satisfaction with the relocation of Matawalle and CDS Musa to oversee efforts against terrorism and banditry.
“The President’s directive to deploy these key officials to the region highlights his concern for the escalating insecurity,” said NOWAP President, Comrade Abba Gana Abba.
He praised the President for providing necessary resources to support troops, adding that this move would significantly boost their morale.
The group also urged the federal government to provide additional funding, personnel, and equipment to security agencies, stressing that local communities should cooperate by providing intelligence to help combat the insecurity.
“We beseech Mr. President to uncover the sponsors behind these criminal activities,” NOWAP concluded, noting that only a united approach can bring lasting peace to the region.