The Minister of Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, met with key northern stakeholders on Tuesday to discuss the development of northern Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
The meeting, which took place at Alhaji Ibrahim Kabiru Masari’s office in Aso Rock, Abuja, brought together influential political figures from the region to deliberate on strategies for promoting growth and security in the North.
Attendees at the high-level gathering included the Minister of Budget and National Planning, senator Abubakar Bagudu, the Governor of Yobe State, Mai Mala Buni, and Masari, who serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Political and Other Matters.
Matawalle emphasized that sustainable development in the northern region hinges on the restoration of peace and security.
Under his leadership as Minister of Defence, significant progress has been made in combatting banditry, particularly with the elimination of notorious bandit leader Halilu Sububu and many others.
“Development cannot take place when there is insecurity,” Matawalle said, highlighting the efforts that have led to a reduction in violent activities across the region.
In recent months, the northern region has experienced a marked decrease in insecurity, with no reported incidents of kidnapping.
Matawalle credited the improved situation to coordinated security measures and pledged to maintain efforts aimed at eradicating the remnants of insurgency and banditry.
The meeting underscored the importance of supporting Tinubu’s administration in its quest to bring economic and social development to northern Nigeria. Participants expressed confidence that the region is on the verge of witnessing significant improvements in infrastructure, education, and healthcare under the president’s agenda.
Abubakar Bagudu, Minister of Budget and National Planning, provided insights into the government’s financial plans for the North, stressing the importance of fiscal responsibility and efficient resource allocation in fostering regional growth.
He noted that the Tinubu administration is committed to ensuring equitable development across all parts of the country, with a special focus on the northern states.
Governor Mai Mala Buni echoed Bagudu’s sentiments, urging northern leaders and communities to rally behind the government’s initiatives. He stressed that unity and collaboration among stakeholders will be key to overcoming the challenges that have hindered the region’s progress for years.
Alhaji Ibrahim Kabiru Masari, the host of the meeting, reiterated the need for political stability and community engagement in achieving lasting peace.
He called on northern citizens to support Tinubu’s leadership and assured them that the government is working tirelessly to bring tangible development to the region.
The participants also discussed the importance of investing in youth empowerment and education as a means of preventing future insurgency. They highlighted the role of education in promoting social cohesion and reducing poverty, which are seen as drivers of insecurity in the region.
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