A coalition of 774 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) has named Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, as the “Minister of the Year 2024” for his exceptional leadership, dedication to Nigeria’s security, and significant achievements throughout the year.
The announcement was made Tuesday by Dr Hakeem Baba Tunde, the coalition’s national chairman.
Baba Tunde said Dr Matawalle’s tenure has been marked by a dual focus on international diplomacy and domestic cohesion, resulting in notable progress in the country’s defence framework.
He said: “Dr. Matawalle began 2024 with a dual focus on international diplomacy and domestic cohesion. From January 8–9, he embarked on an official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), alongside the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, OFR. During the visit, they engaged with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs to enhance bilateral defence relations.
“On January 20, he attended the Nigerian Air Force Base Socio-Cultural Activities (BASA) for 2023 in Abuja, hosted by Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, celebrating the dedication of airmen and airwomen. Two days later, on January 22, Dr. Matawalle hosted His Excellency, Salem Saeed Al-Shamsi, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, for high-level discussions on deepening Nigeria-UAE defence ties.
“He concluded the month with a two-day roundtable on January 24–25, addressing Northern Nigeria’s security challenges. The event was organised by the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja.
“In February, Dr. Matawalle’s global engagements took him to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where he attended the World Defence Exhibition from February 4–8.
“The event showcased Nigeria’s defence capabilities and explored strategic partnerships. On February 23, he paid tribute to retired flag officers at the Nigerian Navy Regimental Dinner Night in Asokoro, Abuja.
“March was a month of impactful initiatives. On March 4, Dr. Matawalle held talks with Mrs. Hen Cohn, Director of the United Nations Mine Action Service (UNMAS), to establish a mine action center in Maiduguri to enhance safety in conflict zones.
