The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has applauded Sokoto State Government for its massive support to the Nigerian military and other security agencies.
Matawalle gave the commendation on Friday during the handover ceremony of 10 operational vehicles to the Nigerian troops deployed to Sokoto State, held at the Government House, Sokoto.
The vehicles, consisting of 8 Buffalo trucks and 2 Toyota Hilux, were donated by the Sokoto State Government as part of its ongoing collaboration with the Federal Government’s security initiatives in the North-West.
The AUTHORITY reports that the donation follows a larger contribution made a few months ago when the Sokoto governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, donated 100 operational vehicles to security forces in the state to combat banditry and insurgency.
In a statement signed by his Personal Assistant on Media, Ahmad Dan-Wudil, Dr. Matawalle expressed delight over the development.
“I commend the Sokoto State Government for its steadfast support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies,” the governor was quoted to have said.
Matawalle emphasized that the operational vehicles would greatly enhance the mobility, efficiency, and readiness of the security forces, enabling them to respond more effectively to security challenges.
“The security of our nation demands a collective effort at every level. The Sokoto State Government has consistently demonstrated its dedication to this cause. These vehicles will significantly improve the operational capacity of our forces across the region,” he said.
On his part, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Brigadier General I.A. Ajosin, who received the vehicles, expressed profound gratitude to the Sokoto State Government on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff for its continued support of military operations in the region.
Following the vehicle handover, Dr. Matawalle also received an in-depth operational briefing from the Air Component of Joint Operation Hadarin Daji in the North-West.
The briefing provided a comprehensive analysis of recent successes, including the neutralization of several bandit leaders through coordinated air and ground offensives.
The Minister praised the Air Component for its precision and effectiveness, commending recent missions that have significantly disrupted bandit activities. He reassured them that the Federal Government remains fully committed to addressing any challenges to ensure continued success.
“Your achievements are a testament to your professionalism and dedication. Rest assured, the Federal Government will continue to provide all necessary support to sustain the successes of Operation Hadarin Daji,” he added.
