*Photo: Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle(right) at the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto State on Tuesday*
Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, is in Sokoto and has paid a crucial visit to the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto State.
He was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye; and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Brigadier General IA Ajose, alongside other very senior military officers, according to a statement on Tuesday by Henshaw Ogubike, Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.
Ogubike said the purpose of this high-level visit was to review the ongoing operations of 8 Division and that the Minister has issued a direct charge to the troops of Operation Hadarin Daji: to intensify their efforts in flushing out bandits and terrorists from the region, in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He added that Dr. Matawalle during the visit expressed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security in the Northwest and that the Minister commended the troops for their dedication and resilience in the face of challenging security operations and emphasized the importance of their mission in protecting the lives and property of Nigerians.
“The security of our nation is paramount, and the President has given a clear mandate that the bandits and terrorists threatening our peace must be flushed out. I am here today to reaffirm the Federal Government’s support and to urge you to remain relentless in your efforts. Your bravery and dedication are the backbone of our national security,” Dr. Matawalle was quoted as saying.
He further encouraged the troops to leverage on the full support of the government and military leadership in their operations. “The Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs stand with you, providing the necessary resources and strategic guidance. We expect nothing less than total success in this operation. The safety and security of the people of Sokoto and the entire Northwest region depend on your effectiveness,” the Minister added.
Dr. Matawalle also took the opportunity to review the operational strategies in place and discussed ways to enhance the effectiveness of the ongoing military efforts. He assured the troops that the government will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of Operation Hadarin Daji.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no doubt in your ability to deliver on this mission. Together, we will restore peace to our land and secure a brighter future for all Nigerians,” Dr. Matawalle concluded.
Earlier the Minister visited 8 Div Medical Facilities and Hospital in Giginya Barracks, Sokoto. Dr. Matawalle gave assurances of support to the facility with equipment thereby boosting the morale of patients in the facility.
