From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will silence his critics and political opponents through his achievements ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Matawalle stated this in a solidarity message delivered at the Contact and Sensitisation Retreat organised by the North-West Tinubu/Matawalle Peace and Unity Initiative on Tuesday in Sokoto.
He condemned critics of the Tinubu administration, describing them as purveyors of falsehood, mischief and propaganda aimed at tarnishing the President’s image and undermining the achievements of his administration.
According to him, such campaigns would not diminish the President’s performance or his contributions to national development.
Matawalle said President Tinubu remains one of Nigeria’s most committed leaders, demonstrating selfless service and determination in addressing the country’s challenges, particularly insecurity and governance issues inherited from previous administrations.
He noted that the President had initiated and executed numerous projects across various sectors, while also providing substantial support to the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies in tackling security challenges across the country, especially in the North.
The minister further stated that Tinubu has prioritised economic growth, education, human capital development and infrastructure expansion to stimulate national development, reduce poverty and improve the living conditions of Nigerians.
“It is surprising that some individuals and groups continue to work to tarnish the image of the President despite his efforts to promote peace, national unity and sustainable development,” he said.
He alleged that certain elements had recruited youths to spread misinformation and negative propaganda against the President for selfish political interests.
Matawalle described Tinubu as a visionary and people-oriented leader committed to addressing Nigeria’s challenges and building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
He urged youths to engage in productive ventures and avoid spreading falsehoods and unverified information capable of creating division and instability in the country.
The minister also advised politicians to focus on community development, economic growth and national stability.
In his remarks, the Lead Convener of the initiative, Malam Yusuf Abubakar, said the retreat was organised to mobilise support for President Tinubu’s re-election by highlighting the achievements of his administration and its commitment to national development.
Abubakar stressed the need for sustained collaboration among stakeholders to enlighten Nigerians on the administration’s efforts towards economic growth, infrastructure development and national stability.
He commended Matawalle for supporting the awareness campaign and encouraged him to sustain efforts aimed at strengthening support for President Tinubu’s second-term bid.
According to him, no fewer than 58 community leaders, association heads and ambassadors from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara and Kaduna states participated in the retreat.
