Bello Muhammed Matawalle, the minister of state for defense, has called for increased operations against terrorists and bandits in the northwest of the country due to the ongoing attacks on towns and kidnappings caused by their activities.

Matawalle asserted that “the activities of these bandits have increased over time, especially in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara states, which has led to attacks on military personnel, loss of life, and destruction of military hardware.”

In order to eradicate insurgency and other types of criminality in the area, the Minister has instructed the Nigerian Military to take an increased level of initiative in combating banditry and addressing insecurity in the aforementioned states. At the same time, he has underlined the necessity of interservice cooperation.

The minister reiterated the urgency of these operations, stating that “the safety and well-being of our citizens remain paramount, and it is imperative that decisive action be taken to curb the menace of terrorism and banditry in our communities.”

“Enhanced security in the region will not only safeguard the lives and properties of our people but also improve the quality of farming and irrigation.

“Farmers will be able to cultivate their lands without fear of attacks, thus ensuring food security and economic prosperity for the region.”

He highlighted the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s sort out to confront insecurity head-on and guarantee the security and welfare of every citizen.

He urged communities to aid security officials in their efforts to purge the area of criminal groups and called on all parties involved to cooperate.