Defense Minister Muhammed Badaru and his state counterpart Bello Matawalle took up their duties at the ministry headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Badaru, in his remarks shortly after officially taking over from Ibrahim Kana, the ministry’s permanent secretary, vowed to review previous reports on insecurity in the country.
He said this was with a view to addressing the hydra head challenge and making Nigeria a safe place for everyone.
The minister said that they would not betray the trust of President Bola Tinubu and for this reason he commissioned the heads of service to give him a schedule and requirements to solve the issue of insecurity in the country.
“This timeline and target will be relayed to the president, and I am confident that he will be monitoring us.
“The president is ready to give us all the support we need to succeed because he is a winner and has no patience for failure.
“For the good of our country, we know that without security there will be no investment, and without investment there will be no economic growth,” Badaru said.
The minister assured that his management will mean a notable change in the country’s security situation and promised not to joke with the appointment.
Similarly, Mr. Matawalle, in his remarks, said that the Nigerian Armed Forces have shown exceptional commitment over time despite the ever-evolving security landscape.
“New threats emerge while existing ones persist.
“Terrorism, banditry, insurgency, cyberwarfare, transnational organized crime, and communal conflicts pose significant challenges to our national security.
“The task ahead of us is not easy. However, I am confident that with the support of my colleagues, the dedication of our military and the unwavering commitment of all Nigerian citizens, we will overcome any challenge that comes our way,” he said.
Mr. Matawalle noted that Nigeria was blessed with abundant resources, diverse cultures, and a resilient population.
“However, it is a nation that faces numerous challenges in maintaining peace and stability within its borders.
“Our geographic location, coupled with internal and external threats, demands a robust defense strategy that can effectively protect our sovereignty and preserve our national interest,” he said.
He said that the ministry would spare no effort to ensure the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.
“We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to build a robust defense apparatus that can effectively counter emerging threats.”
However, he said that the defense of the nation falls on everyone’s shoulders, not just the defense forces or the government.
“It is a collective responsibility that requires the active participation of all citizens,” Matawalle said.
The state minister further said that he and his top colleague had decided to take a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to effectively address the prevailing security issues in the country.
According to him, the armed forces would be modernized and strengthened by investing in advanced weaponry, intelligence gathering capabilities, surveillance system and cyber defense infrastructure.
“We will work with international partners to acquire cutting-edge technology and experience that will enhance our defense capabilities.
“At the same time, we recognize that military might alone cannot guarantee lasting security and stability.
“We must address the root causes of conflict, promote social cohesion and encourage economic development.”
He further said that while the government takes the lead in addressing security challenges, the importance of engaging with all stakeholders cannot be overemphasized.
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He also said that regional cooperation was essential to combat transnational threats.
“Nigeria will continue to strengthen its partnership with neighboring countries and regional organizations such as ECOWAS and the AU by sharing intelligence, coordinating operations and conducting joint exercises,” he said.
Mr Matawalle added that the ministry would prioritize the well-being and training of security personnel and ensure they are well equipped with the necessary tools and resources to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
(YAYA)
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