The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has revealed that over 8,000 terrorists and bandits were killed across Nigeria in 2024 as part of major security operations under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking during a review of the administration’s achievements, Matawalle noted that the results were due to renewed efforts and improved strategies by Nigeria’s armed forces.
He said the military, with the backing of the federal government, had recorded significant success in restoring peace to regions troubled by terrorism and armed banditry.
According to a statement released on Monday by Patience Ituke on behalf of the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle pointed out that the Tinubu administration had put in place strong defence policies that supported these successful operations.
In addition to the elimination of thousands of armed criminals, security forces arrested more than 11,600 suspects believed to be involved in various violent crimes. They also recovered over 10,000 illegal weapons from different conflict zones in the country.
The statement partly read, “Bello Matawalle lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative reforms, asserting that these initiatives will pave the way for a brighter future for Nigeria and potentially secure Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
“Minister Matawalle highlighted several key achievements of President Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of security and defence.
“He noted the successful neutralisation of over 8,000 terrorists and bandits, the arrest of 11,600 criminals, and the recovery of more than 10,000 weapons in 2024.
