1. Revitalizing DICON
Dr. Bello Matawalle’s leadership has ushered in a transformative era for Nigeria’s defense industry, with a key milestone being the revitalization of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON). The passage of the DICON Bill in 2023, championed by Matawalle, empowered the agency to form strategic partnerships with international defence firms. This paved the way for advanced technology transfers and the local production of military hardware.
Under his stewardship, DICON partnered with the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) and the Ministry of Steel Development to establish a cutting-edge military hardware production facility. These collaborations align with Matawalle’s vision of equipping Nigeria’s Armed Forces with homegrown solutions to meet evolving security challenges.
Matawalle’s commitment to positioning DICON as a leader in research and development mirrors global benchmarks, such as the United States’ Armament Research, Development and Engineering Centre (ARDEC) and Germany’s Diehl Defence. This initiative promises not only to enhance Nigeria’s security infrastructure but also to create economic opportunities through the export of military technology.
Speaking during DICON’s 60th-anniversary commemoration, Matawalle outlined the Federal Government’s comprehensive restructuring plan for the agency under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He highlighted the importance of boosting local production to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, saving millions in foreign exchange.
“With these initiatives, we aim to ensure that all military hardware is sourced domestically, much like what NNPC is achieving with the Dangote Refinery,” Matawalle remarked in a Channels TV interview. This approach underscores his vision of self-reliance, cost-efficiency, and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s defence sector.
2. Taking Banditry Head-On
On September 30, 2024, a video surfaced online featuring notorious terrorist Bello Turji, pleading for forgiveness and calling for dialogue with the Federal Government to end armed violence in Zamfara State. Turji’s sudden shift followed weeks of decisive military operations that dismantled major bandit networks in the region.
The turning point in the fight against banditry came on September 1, 2024, when Dr. Matawalle led the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other Service Chiefs to Sokoto on a Presidential directive to eradicate banditry in the North West.
On October 8, 2024, Dr. Bello Matawalle, commenced the second phase of his North West tour, focused on eradicating kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities destabilizing the region. Within a week, the Nigerian Armed Forces neutralized Kachalla Ibrahim Gurgun Raji, a notorious bandit leader, in Kwanar Nasiru, Gusau Local Government Area, Zamfara State.
This strategic interventions yielded immediate results:
- Kachalla Sani-Black: This notorious bandit leader, commanding over 150 fighters in Zamfara’s Chabi area, was eliminated on September 24, alongside his sons and key associates.
- Baleri Fakai: A close ally of Turji, Fakai and 30 of his fighters were neutralized in Maru Local Government Area.
- Halilu Sububu: Infamous for leading the 2021 attack on a Katsina military base, Sububu was killed by the Nigerian Air Force on September 12.
- Halilu Buzu: This notorious bandit was taken out hours before Sububu in a coordinated Nigerian Army operation.
- Sani Wala Burki: Responsible for terrorizing Katsina’s Safana and Batsari LGAs, Burki was eliminated in a joint operation on September 14.
- Kachalla Ibrahim Gurgun Raji: In October, the military neutralized this dangerous bandit in Gusau, Zamfara State.
These operations, executed with precision and determination, marked a significant victory for the Nigerian Armed Forces and showcased Dr. Matawalle’s leadership and resolve. Notably, former Senator Shehu Sani lauded these efforts, describing criticism of Matawalle and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu as distractions from the fight against terrorism.
Dr. Matawalle’s commitment to eliminating banditry is unwavering. As the Minister embarks on further strategic tours in the North West, Nigerians continue to witness the results of his efforts—solidifying his place as a resolute defender of the nation.
3. Digitizing Military Pensions Verification
In a bid to reform the welfare of Nigeria’s military veterans, Matawalle introduced the digitization of the Military Pensions Board’s verification process. Previously conducted through cumbersome physical exercises, the new electronic system allows retirees to verify their status using digital identifiers such as international passports, National Identity Numbers, or driver’s licenses.
This innovation spares veterans and their families the stress of traveling long distances for verification, ensuring that their entitlements are processed seamlessly. By modernizing this critical process, Matawalle has not only enhanced the efficiency of the Military Pensions Board but also demonstrated his commitment to the dignity and well-being of Nigeria’s ex-service personnel.
4. Establishment of the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Task Force
Recognizing the strategic importance of the Gulf of Guinea, Dr. Bello Matawalle facilitated the establishment of the Gulf of Guinea Maritime Task Force under the auspices of the Gulf of Guinea Commission (GGC). This initiative addresses critical issues such as maritime security, illegal activities at sea, and environmental protection.
The task force is poised to enhance regional cooperation, promote sustainable development, and ensure the security of Nigeria’s maritime domain. By championing this initiative, Matawalle has reinforced Nigeria’s leadership in regional maritime affairs and its commitment to global maritime security.
5. Strengthening Defence Diplomacy
Dr. Bello Matawalle’s strategic international engagements in 2023 and 2024 underscored his commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s defence capabilities through global partnerships.
In December 2023, he visited the United States, where he held high-level discussions with key stakeholders, including Congresswoman Betty McCollum, a member of the U.S. Congressional Subcommittee on Appropriations. The engagements centered on bolstering bilateral defence ties, technology transfer, joint training, and collaborative security initiatives to combat insecurity in the West African sub-region. Congresswoman McCollum’s letter of appreciation further reinforced the mutual commitment to strengthening Nigeria-U.S. defence relations.
In a similar vein, Matawalle’s visit to Turkey was instrumental in expediting the production and delivery of critical military hardware for the Nigerian Armed Forces. His inspection of state-of-the-art helicopters, naval vessels, and other equipment underscored Nigeria’s focus on defence modernization. Notably, in April 2024, the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, commissioned two offshore patrol vessels for the Nigerian Navy in Turkey, accompanied by Matawalle and the Chief of Naval Staff. These assets significantly enhance Nigeria’s naval capabilities.
These diplomatic efforts have not only fortified Nigeria’s defence infrastructure but also positioned the nation as a credible partner in global security and defence collaboration.
From revitalizing DICON to spearheading defence diplomacy, combating banditry, and reforming military pensions, Dr. Bello Matawalle’s tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence has been marked by impactful initiatives. These efforts reflect his vision of a self-reliant, secure, and technologically advanced Nigeria. His achievements in 2024 underscore his dedication to building a legacy of strategic reforms and transformative leadership in Nigeria’s defence sector.
