By Bavoriat Clara
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Matawalle, has reiterated that ensuring the security of Nigeria is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of citizens, communities and all relevant stakeholders.
Dr Matawalle made this known when members of the National Forum of Former Legislators paid him a courtesy visit on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
According to the Minister, safeguarding the nation goes beyond the efforts of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces, stressing that public cooperation, timely intelligence sharing and community vigilance are critical to addressing security challenges across the country. He noted that national security management remains a complex task, particularly in the face of evolving threats in different regions.
He explained that while public concerns and criticisms are expected in a democratic society, it is important to situate such issues within their proper historical and operational contexts. Dr Matawalle added that the current administration, through the Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the Armed Forces and other security agencies, is confronting these challenges through renewed strategies, improved inter-agency cooperation, sustained operations and continuous capacity building.
The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national security through closer collaboration between the Executive and Legislative arms of government. He emphasised that addressing Nigeria’s security challenges requires a holistic approach that combines kinetic operations with non-kinetic measures, including intelligence sharing and effective legislative oversight.
Dr Matawalle also underscored the importance of drawing on the experience and institutional knowledge of former legislators in shaping policies that promote peace, stability and national cohesion. He commended the forum for its sustained interest in national security matters and assured members of the Ministry’s readiness to work closely with them and other relevant institutions to ensure a safer and more secure Nigeria.
Earlier, the leader of the delegation, Hon Raphael Nnanna Ibekwe, said the visit was to identify with the Ministry of Defence over what he described as its giant strides in addressing security challenges. He acknowledged the difficulties confronting the Ministry and reiterated that security is a collective responsibility.
Hon Ibekwe called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government and security agencies by providing useful information that would help flush out emerging security threats. He urged the Ministry to remain focused on its mandate in line with the agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, assuring that members of the forum were willing to assist, particularly in non-kinetic approaches to security.
He noted that the forum has members with vast experience, including security experts, who could contribute meaningfully to national security efforts. He also encouraged the Minister to sustain and improve on his efforts, adding that the delegation’s visit was a show of support in recognition of Dr Matawalle’s credentials and commitment to national service.
The statement was issued by the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, on behalf of the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence.
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