The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu will secure a wider electoral margin in the North-west in the 2027 presidential election, citing what he described as the administration’s achievements in security, infrastructure and economic development.
Mr Matawalle said the president remained politically strong across the region and continued to enjoy growing support because of the impact of the administration’s policies and programmes.
The minister made the remarks in a statement issued on Thursday by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil.
He accused opposition groups of attempting to undermine the government’s achievements through misinformation and exaggerated claims about insecurity.
According to him, critics of the administration were uncomfortable with the progress being recorded in addressing insecurity and implementing development projects across the country.
“The opposition is uncomfortable with the progress being made in tackling insecurity and advancing development across the country.
“Rather than acknowledge the sacrifices of our gallant security personnel and the successes being recorded, they focus on isolated incidents to create a false impression of failure and instability,” Mr Matawalle said.
The minister commended members of the armed forces and other security agencies for their efforts in safeguarding the country, noting that many personnel had lost their lives in the line of duty.
He said the Tinubu administration had adopted a more coordinated and intelligence-driven approach to security operations, particularly in Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Kebbi states.
According to him, the strategy has resulted in the neutralisation of several bandit leaders and the destruction of criminal hideouts.
Mr Matawalle added that the improved security situation had enabled many residents of previously affected communities to return to farming and other economic activities.
He also highlighted what he described as progress in the fight against insurgency in the North-east as well as efforts to address communal and criminal violence in parts of the North-central region.
Speaking on the administration’s broader agenda, the minister said the Renewed Hope programme was yielding results in key sectors, including security, infrastructure, agriculture, social investment and economic reforms.
He listed several federal government initiatives benefiting Northern Nigeria, including road construction and rehabilitation projects, support for agricultural value chains, food security programmes, investments in rail and energy infrastructure, and empowerment schemes for youths and women.
Mr Matawalle said the administration’s commitment to strengthening security, expanding access to education, supporting local industries and creating economic opportunities had continued to attract positive responses from citizens across the region.
He expressed optimism that the administration’s performance would translate into electoral support for President Tinubu in 2027.
“The people of the North-West can see the difference. They are experiencing improved security, greater economic opportunities and renewed government attention to their welfare.
“So no amount of propaganda, blackmail or political manipulation can erase these achievements,” he said.
The minister called on political actors to place national interest above partisan considerations and support efforts aimed at consolidating peace, security and development across the country.
