The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has declared President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the North’s “greatest asset” in tackling insecurity and driving development—firmly rejecting claims that the president is a liability to the region.

In a statement issued Friday through his Senior Political Aide, Hon. Ibrahim Danmaliki Gidan Goga, Matawalle accused Tinubu’s critics of spreading propaganda and falsehoods to gain political relevance.

“These individuals, who failed to secure their own political futures, now peddle lies to stir unrest,” the minister said. “They once held power and did nothing. Now they shed crocodile tears and chase cheap popularity.”

Matawalle highlighted major security gains made since Tinubu assumed office, including the success of Operation Fansan Yamma. According to him, over 65 notorious bandit leaders have been neutralized, hundreds of foot soldiers eliminated, and more than 200 criminal camps destroyed.

“This year’s Ramadan and Sallah celebrations saw significantly fewer bandit attacks and kidnappings—clear proof that progress is being made,” he stated.

He also pointed fingers at excluded political elites for allegedly fueling misinformation out of frustration over missed appointments.

 “Their bitterness stems not from national interest, but from personal disappointment,” he said.

On infrastructure, Matawalle lauded the federal government for reviving long-abandoned northern road projects. These include the multi-billion-naira Zaria–Gusau–Talata Mafara–Sokoto expressway and the re-awarded Abuja–Kaduna–Kano highway.

“These roads are lifelines the North has waited decades for. President Tinubu is making them a reality,” he emphasized.

Matawalle urged Northerners to rally behind the president and disregard what he called “divisive and baseless” narratives.

“Tinubu is committed to building a secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria. The North must stand with him,” he concluded.