The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has been appointed Deputy Director, Security and Intelligence 1, of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Presidential Campaign Council for the 2027 general election.
The appointment was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC presidential candidate, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence.
Matawalle’s new role places him at the centre of the campaign council’s security and intelligence operations, with responsibility for coordinating security arrangements for campaign activities across the country.
As part of his duties, the minister will oversee measures aimed at protecting candidates, campaign officials and supporters during political activities.
He will also coordinate intelligence gathering and risk assessments, working with relevant security agencies to identify potential threats and develop strategies to mitigate risks associated with campaign operations.
The former Zamfara State governor is expected to lead inter-agency and stakeholder engagements, including consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders, youth and women groups, to strengthen the campaign’s security framework.
The ministry said Matawalle’s appointment reflected Tinubu’s confidence in his experience in public service, security management and political mobilisation.
It noted that Matawalle had gained experience managing complex security challenges and implementing community-based peace initiatives during his tenure as Zamfara governor.
The minister has also participated in the implementation of the Tinubu administration’s security agenda through strategic engagements with security agencies and initiatives focused on troops’ welfare and infrastructure development.
According to the statement, Matawalle’s grassroots network, leadership experience and background in executive and national security roles make him suitable for the sensitive responsibilities attached to the position.
Reacting to his appointment, Matawalle thanked President Tinubu and the APC leadership for the confidence reposed in him.
He pledged to deploy his experience as a former governor, serving minister and political leader towards ensuring a peaceful, coordinated and successful campaign.
Matawalle said the APC presidential campaign would focus on taking the achievements of the Renewed Hope administration to Nigerians across the country.