A coalition of 774 Civil Society Organisations has lauded President Bola Tinubu, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa for what it described as significant strides in improving security across Nigeria’s North-West.
In a statement issued Sunday in Abuja, the coalition’s Publicity Secretary, Dr. Usman Goronyo, credited the drop in criminal activities such as kidnapping and banditry to the collaborative leadership of top security figures, including Matawalle, General Musa, and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
According to the group, decisive operations spearheaded by Minister Matawalle under President Tinubu’s directive—particularly in Sokoto State last year—marked a pivotal shift in the fight against insecurity. Among the successes highlighted was the neutralization of several notorious criminals, including the infamous kidnap kingpin 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 going about doing 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 these successes to 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 these 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.
