Fani-Kayode Defends Matawalle, Says Defence Minister Delivering Major Gains in Anti-Terror War

Fani-Kayode Defends Matawalle, Says Defence Minister Delivering Major Gains in Anti-Terror War

Former Minister of Aviation Femi Fani-Kayode has condemned what he described as a “vicious media campaign” targeting the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

In a statement released on his official X account, Fani-Kayode said the alleged opposition-backed attacks on Matawalle were “shameless and nauseating,” insisting the minister has shown unwavering loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and has made notable contributions to Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.

According to him, the collaboration between Matawalle and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has significantly boosted the nation’s fight against terrorism.
“The combination of him and NSA Nuhu Ribadu has resulted in the killing of more terrorists in the last two years than in the previous eight put together,” he claimed.

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Fani-Kayode, however, faulted security authorities for not publicizing these achievements:
“My only grouse is that for some reason, they do not make this public and let the world know about it, which I think they should.”

He urged Matawalle to remain focused amid attempts to discredit him, describing the minister as a “ruthless and courageous fighter” whose boldness has strengthened their 15-year friendship.

“I urge my friend and brother, Matawalle, to continue the good work and ignore the ‘bad belle’ distractions,” he added.

The former minister also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s evolving security leadership following the appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), as Minister of Defence.

He stated that the combination of Musa, Ribadu, Matawalle and the new service chiefs would further enhance national security outcomes.

“We are with you, my brother, and more importantly, God is behind you,” Fani-Kayode assured.

Fani-Kayode Defends Matawalle, Says Defence Minister Delivering Major Gains in Anti-Terror War