The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has called on Northern Nigerians to reject what he described as “politically motivated propaganda” aimed at discrediting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
In a statement released on Friday and signed by his Special Assistant on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Goga, the former Zamfara State Governor said President Tinubu has shown exceptional dedication to the North, particularly through the revival of long-abandoned infrastructure projects and improved security.
“President Tinubu has demonstrated an uncommon commitment to addressing the challenges facing our region,” Matawalle stated. “Those attacking him with propaganda are only seeking relevance after failing to secure their political future.”
Highlighting specific efforts, Matawalle pointed to the ongoing rehabilitation of key transport routes such as the Zaria-Gusau-Talata Mafara-Sokoto expressway and the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano highway, noting that both projects were left neglected for years under previous administrations.
“These projects were abandoned for years, but President Tinubu has revived them. Critics deliberately ignore these achievements because they do not serve their narrative,” he added.
Matawalle also accused some members of the northern political class of orchestrating misinformation campaigns against the President, accusing them of attempting to rewrite their legacies after leaving little impact during their time in office.
“These individuals had the opportunity to lead but left no meaningful legacy. Today, they parade themselves as defenders of the people, using falsehoods and crocodile tears to win sympathy,” he said.
The Minister praised the administration’s security efforts, particularly through Operation Fansan Yamma, which he said contributed to a notably peaceful Easter and Ramadan period across many northern communities.
“Our security forces, backed by the President’s proactive strategies, have recorded remarkable successes,” Matawalle noted.
He concluded by urging Northerners to focus on unity and long-term development rather than divisive rhetoric, emphasizing the importance of supporting a leadership committed to tangible progress.
“We must be part of the solution, not the problem. The North stands to gain more through unity and support for a working leadership,” he said.
