The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has welcomed the decision of Dauda Lawal to join the All Progressives Congress, describing the development as “cheering and long overdue.”
In a statement issued on Monday, Matawalle said he had long anticipated the governor’s alignment with the ruling party because of what he described as shared aspirations for the development, stability, and prosperity of Zamfara State.
“I warmly welcome the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, into the All Progressives Congress. His decision to join the progressive family is both cheering and long overdue,” the minister said.
According to him, the APC has over the years become a reference point for progressive values, democratic transformation, and purposeful governance in Nigeria. He added that the governor’s decision to align Zamfara State with the ruling party at the centre would open the door to a more harmonious and productive relationship with the Federal Government.
Matawalle noted that such collaboration would create opportunities for stronger support for policies and programmes aimed at accelerating development in the state.
He also stressed that the development comes at a critical time when Zamfara continues to face serious security challenges, adding that closer cooperation between the state and the Federal Government would strengthen efforts to restore peace and stability.
“As the Minister of State for Defence, I look forward to strengthening this cooperation so that we can collectively deliver the security and stability our people deserve,” he said.
Matawalle further described the timing of the defection as significant ahead of the next electoral cycle, expressing confidence that unity within the APC would help consolidate support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu while ensuring stable leadership in Zamfara State.
He assured the governor of his full support and cooperation as they work with the leadership of the party and the Federal Government to strengthen security, deepen development, and deliver greater progress for the people of the state.
