By Abubakar Ibrahim Garba, Kaduna
A respected public affairs analyst, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restructure the Ministry of Defence by abolishing the office of the Minister of State for Defence.
He further urged the President to relieve Bello Matawalle of his duties, citing concerns over national security and the ongoing battle against terrorism and banditry.
In a letter addressed to the President, Dr. Shinkafi expressed deep worry over the recent escalation of terror attacks across the country, particularly in the North, and questioned the capacity of the current Minister of State for Defence to contribute meaningfully to national security efforts.
He noted that the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence was widely applauded by Nigerians, who view him as a competent and experienced leader capable of steering the nation’s security architecture in the right direction. However, he argued that the existing dual-leadership structure within the Ministry has become counterproductive.
According to Dr. Shinkafi, the continued retention of Matawalle in the role of Minister of State for Defence undermines effective coordination within the Ministry.
He referenced multiple allegations of corruption and administrative lapses associated with the Minister of State, saying these concerns have further cast doubt on his suitability for the sensitive position.
The letter also highlighted gaps in the current organisational structure of the Defence Ministry, noting that the senior minister lacks direct oversight of critical sectors such as the maritime domain, the Pension Board, and the Defence Industries Corporation. Dr. Shinkafi described this arrangement as inefficient and detrimental to the country’s security goals.
He therefore urged President Tinubu to unify the Ministry under a single command, insisting that doing so would streamline operations, eliminate internal conflicts, and enhance the country’s overall defence strategy.
Dr. Shinkafi concluded by calling on the President to urgently implement the proposed reforms, stressing that effective leadership and clear coordination are essential to tackling Nigeria’s mounting security challenges.
