***Vows to Bring Perpetrators to Justice

The Honorable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON, along with the Honorable Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu, spearheaded a high-level Federal Government delegation to Plateau State. This visit was in solidarity and condolence with the government and citizens following the recent tragic events in Bokkos and Barkin-Ladin Local Government Areas.

This was made available in a statement released by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information & PR).

Dr. Matawalle and Dr. Edu, accompanied by the Service Chiefs, represented the Federal Government’s response team in Plateau State.

The delegation’s visit follows the recent tragic attacks in three Plateau State Local Government Areas, which resulted in numerous fatalities.

The two Ministers with there delegation visited the affected areas of Bokkos and Barkin- Ladin where they held a stakeholders’ meeting with the people of the affected communities.

Additionally, they extended a courtesy visit to the Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency, Caleb Mutfwang, engaging in productive discussions aimed at eradicating insecurity in the state.

Expressing deep sympathy to the communities, Dr. Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering dedication to combating the range of criminal activities plaguing our communities and the nation at large.

“Mr. President has mandated our visit to convey his assurances to you. He is committed to ensuring that the military restores peace in these areas, and that those responsible for these heinous acts will be apprehended,” he stated.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has commended the Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army for their services to the nation.

The Minister made the commendation as the Special Guest of Honour at Guards Brigade West African Social Activities ( WASA) 2023 held in Abuja.

The West African Social Activities ( WASA) is an annual event organized by the Nigerian Army to celebrate the diverse rich cultural heritage of our great country. The annual event brings together Officers, Soldiers, and their families in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and mark the end of the year’s activities.

This was made available in a statement signed by Henshaw Ogubike Director (Information Press & PR).

The Minister while commending the Commander Guards Brigade and his team for excellent work, charged them to aim at greatness and excellence in discharging their duties.

“I am confident that Guards Brigade will rise to the challenges of their duties and keep the flag flying at all times,” he said.

Speaking on the importance of the Guards Brigade, he said that the diversity of experiences, skills and talents of officers and soldiers of the Brigade is an asset to the Nigerian Army and the nation.

“I believe that your dedication to duty will encourage and motivate other soldiers elsewhere to emulate your exemplary efforts. I also thank you all not just for your service to this great country but for reminding us why Nigeria will always be a great nation,” he stated.

Tasking them on their primary duty to the Presidency, Federal Capital Territory and its environs , the Minister opined that their unwavering loyalty, sacrifices and hard work were appreciated. ” Your hard work planning and managing the security threats in the Federal Capital Territory has ensured the safety of not only Mr. President but that of other citizens, visitors and diplomats.

Highlights of the event were the tour of Units and Garrison stands, Cultural display, children’s sack race, taekwondo display, tug of war, beating of retreat, and lighting of the born fire by the Honourable Minister.
The Honourable Minister donated a car to support WASA 2023..
In addition, the donated car was won in the lucky dip raffle draw competition at the event by Mariam Abrahim

Several other lucky winners went home with various gifts ranging from vegetable oil, bags of rice, grinding machine, Television set and cows sponsored by the organiser

Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, has called upon recently promoted Officers of Air Rank to elevate their commitment in serving the nation, ensuring that their newly acquired ranks of Air Vice Marshals and Air Commodores are reflective of their dedication and contributions.

This charge was delivered during a Decoration Ceremony by the Nigerian Air Force, where 22 officers were elevated to the prestigious rank of Air Vice Marshals, and 16 officers were promoted to the rank of Air Commodores. Henshaw Ogubike, Director (Information) Press & Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, conveyed this information in a statement to newsmen.

The Minister emphasized the significance of their roles, stating, “Promotion, especially to air rank, is demanding because the Service expects you to lead from a more holistic and strategic perspective.” He lauded their commitment and contributions, expressing, “I heartily congratulate you for your well-deserved promotions. Indeed, your painstaking efforts and remarkable contributions to the Service were instrumental to your success.”

Addressing the challenges ahead, Dr. Matawalle assured the newly promoted officers of the Federal Government’s unwavering support under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He emphasized the commitment to ensuring a peaceful, safe, and prosperous nation.

In the context of ongoing security challenges, the Minister urged the officers to maintain professionalism and reassess strategies. “We must review our strategies, techniques, tactics, and procedures to assure our fellow citizens of their security and safety,” he stated.

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, also addressed the newly promoted officers, emphasizing the importance of meeting the expectations of Nigerians. He stressed, “You should remember that failure is not an option. I urge you to continue to display selfless service and competence in your duties.”

The Honourable minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammed Bello Matawalle MON has commended the 47 newly promoted Major Generals saying that it was a promotion well deserved.

The Minister made the commendation at the Investiture Ceremony for the newly promoted Major Generals of the Nigerian Army in Abuja.

In his address, Dr. Matawalle commended the dedication and unwavering commitment demonstrated by the newly promoted Major Generals and tasked them to show more dedication and commitment to their duties in order to justify the trust and confidence Mr. President has for the Armed Forces.

He said: “Your promotion is not just a testament to your individual capabilities but also a reflection of the trust the nation places in you.”

Dr. Matawalle further charged the officers on the imperative of synergy among them. “As Major Generals, the need for collaboration, unity, and synergy cannot be overemphasized. Our nation’s security architecture relies heavily on cohesive efforts, and I urge you all to foster strong collaborations in executing your duties,” he remarked.

Accordingly, the Minister emphasized the ongoing need for unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity. While expressing confidence in the capabilities of the newly promoted Major Generals, urging them to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja commended the promotion processes saying that it was true reflection to what they have put in the service.

“The promotion of the 47 Major Generals is a reward for their hard work and commitment to duties. It means more work. What you do with your new rank and the responsibilities that come with it matter most in the discharge of your duties,” he said

THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE, DR. BELLO MUHAMMED MATAWALLE, MON DECORATED THE NEWLY PROMOTED REAR-ADMIRALS IN THE NIGERIAN NAVY ON WEDNESDAY, 27TH DECEMBER 2023 IN ABUJA.

The Permanent Secretary , Ministry of Defence, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana has charged all Nigerians to live in peace and love as exemplified in the life of Jesus Christ.Dr. Kana stated this while praying for all Christians during this year’s Christmas celebration.

The Permanent Secretary extended his warmest and heartfelt greetings to all Nigerians during the Christmas season, emphasizing that it’s a time for peace, love, and sharing for Nigeria and the world at large.Accordingly, he called on all Christians and Nigerians to show the love of Christ towards one another and most especially to the Nigerian Military “Let us all remember the Military in the front lines fighting insecurity in the country,” he charged.To the Military he said their efforts in the fight against insecurity was not unnoticed: “We acknowledge your sacrifices and we thank you for your perseverance in discharging your professional duties,” he commended them.Dr. Kana said that as Christmas season is a period for reflection, gratitude and unity, Nigerians should imbibe the culture of love, peace and goodwill towards one another. Furthermore on his greeting message, he sent words of encouragement to all Nigerians saying: ” Let us remember in the midst of our diversity the essence of this season and strive to forster unity, understanding and harmony in our communities andnation.He prayed that this year Christmas celebration bring us together as one family and align us with Christ’s teaching of peace, love and harmony. On issues of insecurity facing the nation, He opined that with love and unity, the nation can defeat our common enemies of terrorism and other criminalities.He charged all Nigerians irrespective of religion to pray for our Military officers who are out there protecting us.

In a commendable intervention, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has addressed the delay in December salary payments to Nigerian soldiers, ensuring that they receive their salaries in time for the Christmas season.

The announcement was made in a communique signed by Henshaw Ogubike, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence.

Recognizing the critical nature of the matter and understanding the sacrifices made by the military in ensuring the safety and security of the nation, Dr. Matawalle engaged in collaborative efforts with the Accountant General of the Federation and partnered effectively with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to expedite the resolution of the salary payment delay.

Contrary to initial reports, the communique confirms that salary payments have commenced, allowing military officers to celebrate the festive season with their loved ones. Dr. Bello expressed his gratitude to the concerned authorities for their prompt action in resolving the issue after his intervention.

He commended the military for their dedication and commitment to their duties despite the initial challenges in salary payment. Dr. Matawalle stated, “I hope the payment will boost your morale to carry on your constitutional duty of protecting the nation.” He assured that he would continue to use his office to promote the well-being of the Nigerian Military.

Acknowledging the sacrifices made by the brave men and women of the Armed Forces, the Minister of State for Defence extended his Christmas wishes to the soldiers, urging all Nigerians, irrespective of their religion, to pray for the military personnel protecting the nation’s territorial integrity.

“Happy Christmas celebration and a prosperous New Year to our gallant soldiers,” Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle wished them.