The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has said that only divine intervention, alongside collective national efforts, can ultimately bring an end to Nigeria’s lingering security challenges.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Hausa, Matawalle described insecurity as a complex national issue that requires the cooperation of both security agencies and citizens.
“It is disheartening, and we must all rise to ensure that security agencies and Nigerians work together to end insecurity in the country,” he said.
He stressed that insecurity cuts across political, ethnic, and religious lines, warning that no individual or group is immune to its impact.
“Insecurity does not discriminate. It can affect anyone, regardless of political affiliation or religion,” he added.
The minister cautioned opposition politicians against politicising the situation, accusing some of exploiting insecurity to discredit the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, such actions are counterproductive and undermine national unity.
“We have urged the opposition to stop using insecurity to incite people. This is a challenge that can happen to anyone, and no Nigerian is happy about it. Unfortunately, some appear more interested in portraying the government as a failure for political gain,” Matawalle said.
He further alleged that misleading and recycled videos are being circulated on social media to create a false impression of worsening insecurity under the current administration.
“There are fake and recycled videos, some dating back to previous administrations and even from countries like Burkina Faso and Mali, being presented as recent incidents in Nigeria. That is not true,” he stated.
Matawalle, however, assured Nigerians that security operatives are working relentlessly to tackle terrorism and other threats across the country.
“Our security operatives are working tirelessly. We have directed them to deal decisively with terrorists, but this is not a challenge that can disappear overnight,” he said.
While acknowledging the persistence of insecurity, the minister noted that even developed nations continue to grapple with similar threats.
“It is only God that can bring an end to this insecurity, alongside our collective prayers and efforts. Nigerians should continue to support the government and security agencies,” he added.
