The Coalition of 774 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has praised President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, and the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, for their collaborative efforts in enhancing security in the North-West region of Nigeria.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the coalition’s Publicity Secretary, Dr Usman Goronyo, attributed the decline in banditry and kidnappings to the strategic leadership of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, alongside the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
The coalition specifically highlighted Matawalle’s directive-led operations in Sokoto last year, under President Tinubu’s mandate, as a turning point in the fight against insecurity.
It noted that these interventions had resulted in the elimination of numerous bandits, including the notorious kidnapper Alhaji Halilu Sububu.
“We commend Minister Matawalle for his commitment and effective leadership in tackling insecurity,” Goronyo said. “President Tinubu deserves recognition for entrusting him with this crucial responsibility.”
The coalition reported that the security improvements allowed many towns and villages in the region to resume their normal activities peacefully, with no major incidents of bandit attacks, except for isolated unrest in Sokoto and Zamfara States.
“We are pleased to carry out our usual activities, going to farm everyday in the North-West without significant security breaches,” Goronyo added.
The group attributed the successes to the Military’s Operation Fansa Yamma, which targeted and dismantled key bandit enclaves across the region. The improved security, they said, has facilitated safer travel and trade, particularly along major routes such as Zaria to sokoto and Abuja to Kano.
“This is a welcome development. The military’s efforts have significantly eased movement and commerce,” Goronyo stated.
Despite the achievements, the coalition expressed concerns over continued attacks in some villages, including Sabon Birni and Isa in Sokoto state, as well as parts of Katsina, Kebbi, kaduna, Niger and Zamfara state.
“We acknowledge the persistent challenges in some areas but remain confident that security forces are doing their utmost to address them,” Goronyo remarked.
“Minister Matawalle’s unwavering support for the troops has been instrumental in boosting morale and sustaining these gains.”
The coalition also acknowledged the role of General Musa in coordinating the armed forces to maintain stability in the North. It urged the Federal Government to provide additional resources to the military and security agencies to consolidate on recent successes.
“We urge the Federal Government to bolster security efforts through increased funding and logistical support,” the statement read.
“The protection of citizens and their property remains paramount, and we implore security agencies to persist in their commendable efforts,” the group stated.
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