Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has said that ending insecurity in Nigeria will require both divine intervention and the collective efforts of citizens and security agencies.
The minister made the remarks during an interview with BBC Hausa, where he addressed the country’s ongoing security challenges and called for greater unity among Nigerians.
Calls for collective action
Matawalle stressed that insecurity remains a national problem that affects people across political, ethnic and religious divides.
According to him, Nigerians must work together with security agencies to confront the challenge rather than deepen divisions through political disagreements.
“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.
The minister also criticised opposition figures whom he accused of using the security situation to score political points instead of supporting efforts aimed at restoring peace.
“That is why we have urged the opposition to stop using insecurity to incite people… Unfortunately, some members of the opposition appear pleased with the situation,” he said.
Concerns over misinformation
Matawalle further alleged that old and foreign videos are being circulated online and falsely presented as recent incidents in Nigeria.
“It is only God that can bring 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 stated.
He maintained that security operatives are working across the country to combat terrorism and other threats, noting that insecurity remains a global challenge faced by many nations.
The minister’s comments have generated discussion online, with many Nigerians debating the role of government, security agencies and citizens in addressing the country’s security concerns.
