A group, the Concerned Northern Forum (CNF), has commended the former Governor of Zamfara State and Defence Minister, Bello Matawalle, for his efforts in tackling the security challenges and contribution to socio-economic development in the state.

Addressing a press conference in Kaduna on Tuesday, the Chairman of CNF, Aliyu Mohammad, who countered the attack on Matawalle over his tenure as Governor in Zamfara, pointed out that the group was misled over the criticisms against him.

While commending Matawalle’s achievements in Zamfara before vacating office as Governor in 2023, Muhammad remarked that “he oversaw the commencement of the construction of a new airport, a crucial step towards economic growth and improved connectivity for the state, the construction of roads, and improved the state’s water system.

“He made significant strides in security infrastructure by purchasing over 200 Hilux vehicles and ambulances and installing solar-powered street lights in the state capital.

“The Healthcare sector also saw substantial investments, with the construction of special primary healthcare centers in all 147 wards in the states, general hospitals, and primary healthcare centers.”

According to him, Matawalle’s “administration also settled backlogs of payments for NECO and WAEC examinations and focused on technology by establishing a Digital World ICT Center and a Command and Control Room in Gusau, thereby contributing to the economic development of the State.”