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Matawalle: The Poster Boy of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda By Gabriel Okino

Published

2 years ago

August 17, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Matawalle: The Poster Boy of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

By Gabriel Okino

A lot has been said about the former governor of Zamfara state and Minister for State for Defence, Hon Bello Matawalle. Interestingly, they dwelled in the realm of speculation and not reality. There is a fact that can’t be washed away about Hon Bello Matawalle: he is a bold and courageous individual who does not suffer fools gladly. He might not be the darling of newspapers, but a close encounter with him would reveal the depth and quality of his thoughts and how pragmatic he can be in his methodologies.

I had an encounter with him, and I was left speechless with the revelations that followed. I was confronted with someone who exuded brilliance and a grasp of governance issues. Although he presents a shy mien, he is not a shy individual. Rather, he is fierce in thoughts and actions. This much he has brought to bear as the minister of state for Defence. Indeed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu saw and recognized these attributes in him, hence the appointment. I dare say the president knew what he wanted in a defence minister and why he went for Matawalle.

Has Hon Bello Matawalle lived up to the occasion in the critical defence ministry? The answer is yes. His scorecard in the past year is littered with a combination of insights and tangibles that are primed to re-position the defence sector in the country. It must be stated that he has introduced a new strategic focus in the policy direction and implementation for the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

For example, the minister recently signed an MOU and joint venture agreement between the ministry, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria, and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure on the establishment of an ammunition production factory in Nigeria. This is on the heels of the recent revelation that the Armed Forces of Nigeria requires 200 million rounds of ammunition annually for its operations, costing the government at least two dollars per ammunition. The implication of this is that it would cost the country $400 million annually for ammunition for the military alone, aside from the police and other para-military organizations in the country. Spending such an amount of money when we can produce locally is a no-brainer. We should admit that producing ammunition locally with the recent MOU signed is a brilliant one from the Minister of State for Defence.

This example indeed gives us a peep into his mind and how he hit the ground running with policies that would translate to tangibles in addressing some of the challenges hindering the operational effectiveness of our Armed Forces. In his words, “We have been travelling around the world, and we see how local manufacturers are developing their countries. Therefore, I promise Mr President that before the expiration of his four years, DICON will be exporting its military capabilities.” This is an audacious statement. The implication is that not only will the country meet its local demands, but it will also enter the business of exporting military capabilities.

In case we do not know, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) was established “to operate the ordnance factories for the manufacture and supply of arms and ammunition as well as inspecting, testing and recommending ordinance material intended for use by the Armed Forces and other security organizations. The organization can produce Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles, designed specifically to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and ambushes. It also can produce mine clearance systems, assault rifles, pistols, ammunition and other military hardware. That the minister of state for defence has decided to ramp up the operational effectiveness of such critical national assets indeed speaks volumes of a man on a mission.

The above is just one example out of the numerous engagements that have been undertaken since he assumed office as the minister of state for defence. There is no doubt that there have been distractions for the honourable minister, especially from his home state, he had continued to focus on the task at hand. This is also another attribute that came to the fore during the chance encounter. Hon Bello Matawalle is such a focused individual who doesn’t allow room for distractions. He indeed mentioned that there have been calculated attempts to smear his reputation by some vested interest, especially from his home state. He mentioned that he rarely gets distracted by side talks. How he does it remains in puzzle given the avalanche of attacks on his personality.

Those around him confessed that he has an uncanny ability to ignore certain things he perceives as unimportant. I agree with this position because the manner he waved off some questions during the chance encounter was indicative. I dare say he is the unnoticed poster boy of this administration. One could feel his passion and commitment to the job. He tells any who cares to listen that he owes the president a great deal of appreciation for appointing him as the minister of state for defence. A gesture he does not take for granted hence his relentless pursuit to help the president achieve the renewed hope agenda that emphasizes shared prosperity among Nigerians.

This he has strived to achieve through the conception and implementation of policies to revamp the defence sector in the country. There may be questions about his position on the happenings in his home state. These questions with the benefit of hindsight are geared towards political persecution. They do not in any way reflect the reality on the ground. Some of them do not add up logically. And they remain a figment of the imagination of the perpetrators. It is called the danger of the single narrative and why Nigerians should be circumspect by not taking things for reality from a single narrative.

I believe that in the fullness of time, Nigerians will come to know and understand the personality of Hon Bello Matawalle and his strength of character and undiluted passion for the entrenchment of sustainable growth and development of the country. His stewardship at the ministry of defence is notable and why those who have elected to smear his reputation should have a rethink. He is on a mission to deliver on the renewed hope agenda of the president. There is no doubt that he is the poster boy of this administration. Those who have elected to constitute themselves into distractions are only engaged in a wild goose chase. This man is focused and unperturbed. The earlier they realized this the better for their sanity.

Okino PhD is a public affairs analyst based in Ibadan.

celebrity radar - gossips

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

Published

2 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

King of the Screen: Why Odunlade, Muyiwa, Femi Adebayo Remain Yoruba Movie Giants

The Yoruba movie industry has continued to produce legendary talents whose influence stretches beyond Nigeria to global audiences. Over the years, some actors have distinguished themselves through consistency, versatility, box office success, and cultural impact.

Among the numerous stars in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, three actors have remained dominant figures whose names constantly resonate with fans and filmmakers alike — Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo.

Odunlade Adekola: The Street King of Yoruba Cinema

Popularly regarded as one of the most entertaining actors in Nollywood, Odunlade Adekola has built a unique reputation through his energetic delivery, comic timing, emotional depth, and strong connection with grassroots audiences.

From comedy to action and emotional family dramas, the actor has consistently proven his versatility in blockbuster productions. His ability to interpret diverse roles effortlessly has made him a household name across Nigeria.

Industry observers believe his dominance on social media platforms, where his movie clips frequently go viral, has further strengthened his popularity among younger audiences.

Beyond acting, Odunlade has also contributed immensely to mentoring upcoming talents and expanding the commercial value of Yoruba films.

Muyiwa Ademola: The Master Storyteller

For many lovers of indigenous movies, Muyiwa Ademola remains one of the finest storytellers the Yoruba film industry has produced.

Widely respected for producing emotional and morally driven movies, the actor earned massive recognition through classic productions that focused on family values, culture, betrayal, perseverance, and societal lessons.

His calm delivery, deep scripts, and originality have kept him relevant despite changing trends in the entertainment industry.

Film critics often describe Muyiwa Ademola as one of the few actors whose productions combine entertainment with strong cultural education, making his movies timeless among older and younger viewers alike.

Femi Adebayo: The Modern-Day Box Office Force

Femi Adebayo has successfully combined traditional Yoruba storytelling with modern cinematic excellence, helping to project indigenous films to international audiences.

The actor, filmmaker, and producer has recorded major successes with high-budget productions that gained attention on streaming platforms and cinemas.

Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Femi Adebayo has continued to push Yoruba movies beyond local boundaries while preserving cultural identity.

Entertainment analysts say his ability to blend culture, technology, and quality production has positioned him among the leading faces shaping the future of Yoruba cinema.

Growing Global Influence

The success of these actors reflects the increasing acceptance of indigenous Nigerian content globally. With streaming platforms creating wider access to local movies, Yoruba actors are now gaining international recognition and attracting new audiences.

Fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry believe the contributions of Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo have not only sustained Yoruba culture through film but have also elevated Nollywood’s global reputation.

celebrity radar - gossips

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

Published

3 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Olowu Kuta To Yoruba Obas: Uplift Culture And Tradition Of Our Forebears

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians to make peace, unity, and selflessness their guiding principles as the world marks this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a “highly spiritual occasion that demands dedication, commitment, and selflessness.”

Oba Makama said the period should be used to reflect on societal happenings and promote messages of hope and unity without inciting provocation.

He urged Nigerians to live together harmoniously, irrespective of religious, political, or tribal affiliations, stressing that politicians should exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“What should be uppermost in the mind of every patriotic Nigerian is **‘Country first,’” he said.

The monarch also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in the face of insecurity, reassuring that the armed forces and paramilitary agencies are working round the clock to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.

“The price wise men pay for eternal liberty is vigilance. I urge everyone to celebrate moderately and extend a helping hand to the less privileged, widows, and orphans, embracing them as our brothers and sisters,” Olowu Makama added.

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

Published

3 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

By Adeyemi Obadimu Veron

The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and the world at large on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement made available to Newsmen, the revered monarch urged Muslims to embrace the true teachings of Islam by promoting peace, love, unity, sacrifice, and compassion during and after the festive period.

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II noted that Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Salah, remains one of the most significant celebrations in Islam as it symbolizes total obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, drawing inspiration from the unwavering sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated complete submission to the will of God.

According to the monarch, the Holy Qur’an teaches believers the importance of righteousness, kindness to humanity, tolerance, and support for the less privileged in society. He emphasized that the season should serve as a reminder for all Nigerians to live in harmony irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political differences.

The royal father further called on Muslims to use the sacred period to pray fervently for peace, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria, stressing that national progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding.

Oba Saliu also encouraged the faithful to extend hands of generosity to widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society, noting that the essence of Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration and feasting, but also reflects the spirit of sharing and caring for humanity as instructed in the Qur’an.

While wishing Muslims a peaceful and memorable Eid celebration, the Oloworo of Oworosoki prayed for divine blessings, prosperity, good health, and continued harmony in homes and communities.

“May this year’s Eid-el-Kabir strengthen our faith, deepen our love for one another, and bring renewed hope and abundant blessings to our nation,” the monarch stated.