The Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, has expressed confidence that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure a second term in office in the 2027 general election, stating that Nigerians will ultimately assess the administration based on its policies, programmes and performance.
Matawalle made the remarks through his Special Adviser on Political Affairs, Ibrahim Mai Gandi, during a Contact and Sensitisation Retreat organised by the North-West Tinubu/Matawalle Peace and Unity Initiatives in Sokoto.
The retreat brought together political and community-based groups involved in mobilisation and civic engagement activities across the North-West region as part of efforts to strengthen stakeholder engagement and public awareness of government programmes.
According to the minister, the Tinubu administration has continued to implement policies and reforms aimed at addressing challenges across critical sectors, including security, infrastructure, economic development and social welfare.
He noted that the administration inherited significant governance and security challenges and has since introduced a range of interventions designed to improve stability, promote development and strengthen public institutions.
Matawalle highlighted increased federal support for the military and other security agencies, saying efforts have been intensified to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities, particularly in parts of Northern Nigeria that have faced prolonged security threats.
He also pointed to economic and human capital development initiatives aimed at stimulating growth, creating opportunities for citizens and reducing poverty across the country.
The minister urged Nigerians to remain informed about government policies and programmes while encouraging citizens, especially young people, to participate constructively in national development and civic activities.
He further called on political leaders, community stakeholders and development partners to support initiatives that promote economic empowerment, grassroots development and national unity.
Describing President Tinubu as committed to advancing national development, Matawalle said the administration remains focused on implementing policies intended to foster peace, strengthen unity and drive economic progress.
Nigeria’s political landscape is already witnessing early alignments and consultations ahead of the 2027 elections, with key political actors positioning themselves as parties prepare for future electoral contests. Analysts expect governance, security, economic performance and social welfare to remain major issues that will shape public discourse and voter decisions in the lead-up to the polls.
Earlier at the event, the Lead Convener of the North-West Tinubu/Matawalle Peace and Unity Initiatives, Yusuf Abubakar, said the retreat was organised to strengthen support networks and increase awareness of the administration’s programmes and development agenda across the region.
He disclosed that 58 leaders of community groups, associations and youth ambassadors drawn from Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara and Kaduna states participated in the programme.
Abubakar also commended Matawalle for supporting mobilisation efforts and stakeholder engagement activities aimed at promoting civic participation and awareness of government initiatives in the North-West.
