Citizens, led by Safiaya Stephanie Musa, question the minister’s qualifications and warn that national security demands competence over political loyalty
Public debate intensified following the recent visit of the minister of Defence to Kebbi State Bello Muhammad Matawalle, as citizens voiced strong concerns about his suitability for one of the nation’s most sensitive security roles. Safiaya Stephanie Musa criticized what she described as a pattern of political appointments that undermine national security, noting that Matawalle had previously served as Governor and Chief Security Officer of Zamfara State during a period when insecurity escalated significantly.
Musa argued that appointing a minister without the necessary defence expertise sends the wrong message to Nigerians who continue to live under the threat of violence. Her concerns were heightened by the elaborate military reception organized in honour of the Matawalle, which she described as excessive and inconsistent with the gravity of Nigeria’s ongoing security crisis.
According to Musa, national security leadership should not be treated as a reward for political loyalty. She emphasized that placing unqualified individuals in critical positions is dangerous, insensitive, and disrespectful to citizens directly affected by insecurity. She further stressed that the country requires a minister who demonstrates competence, professionalism, and a clear understanding of the challenges facing the nation.
Musa concluded with a strong warning, stating that Nigeria is “bleeding” and that only informed, capable security leadership—beginning with an effective minister—can restore public confidence in the defence sector.
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