The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has reassured residents of Zamfara State and other communities affected by banditry of the Federal Government’s continued determination to eradicate banditry and other forms of criminality across the country.

Matawalle gave the assurance during an interactive meeting with former members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly, former commissioners, Special Advisers and other political associates who served under his administration as governor of the state between 2019 and 2023.

The meeting provided an opportunity for the stakeholders to deliberate on key issues affecting the state, with security, political mobilisation, and the development of Zamfara taking centre stage.

Speaking at the meeting, Matawalle said the protection of lives and property remained the foremost responsibility of any serious government.

He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had intensified efforts to build a bridge of peace, unity and political cohesion across the country, stressing that the administration would not lose sight of insecurity, economic development and national unity despite political activities and other challenges.

“Security of lives and property is the major concern of every serious government in any country. That is why the APC-led administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has focused strongly on securing the nation,” Matawalle said.

The minister noted that President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing insecurity was evident in his frequent engagements and consultations on security matters, both within and outside the country.

Matawalle’s therefore urged the stakeholders to mobilise support for the Tinubu Again Movement, calling on them to reach out to communities across Zamfara State and beyond to galvanise support for the President’s re-election bid in 2027.

Earlier, leaders of the various groups represented at the meeting commended Matawalle for maintaining what they described as a formidable political structure since his tenure as governor of Zamfara State.

They said that despite his current national assignment as a member of the Federal Executive Council, Matawalle had continued to command the loyalty and support of a significant number of people across the state.

The leaders pledged their total support and loyalty to the success of President Tinubu’s renewed efforts, saying that the success of the administration would also translate into benefits for the people and their political supporters.

They further expressed their readiness to promote the President’s programmes and showcase Matawalle’s leadership, describing him as a leader who had demonstrated concern for the welfare and aspirations of his supporters.