J o e A l i

Visual Storyteller, Currently Documenting the Personal and Official Activities of The Hon. MINISTER OF STATE DEFENCE Dr. Bello Muh’d Matawalle @bellomatawalle1

[Ahmad Dan Wudil Esq. @AhmadDanwudil]

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
PRESS RELEASE
11 August 2026

Minister Matawalle Visit Egyptian Defence Industry Facilities Strengthens Bilateral Defence Cooperation

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON, has led a high-level Nigerian defence delegation on a two-day visit to key defence industry establishments in the Arab Republic of Egypt, in an effort to deepen bilateral defence cooperation, advance indigenous defence production and strengthen Nigeria’s long-term defence industrial capabilities.

The delegation comprised representatives from the Ministry of Defence, Defence Headquarters (DHQ), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), as well as a representative of the Director-General, Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON).

The visit forms part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to develop mutually beneficial defence partnerships, facilitate technology transfer, strengthen institutional capacity and accelerate the development of a sustainable and technologically advanced domestic defence industrial base.

On the first day of the visit, the delegation undertook a tour of the manufacturing facilities of Eagle International for Defence Systems Company in Suez. The visit provided the Nigerian team with an opportunity to examine a range of defence systems and equipment manufactured by the Egyptian company, as well as gain first-hand insight into Egypt’s growing defence production capabilities and industrial processes.

Speaking during the visit, Minister Bello Matawalle, noted that the visit was primarily strategic and developmental in character, rather than focused on immediate procurement.

He stated that Nigeria’s principal objective was to explore avenues for a sustainable industrial partnership that would enable the two countries to work collaboratively, particularly through Nigeria’s Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), towards the joint manufacture of selected military equipment and systems.

According to the Minister, such collaboration would provide an important platform for strengthening Nigeria’s indigenous production capacity, developing specialised technical expertise, expanding local content and facilitating the transfer of relevant defence technologies and industrial knowledge to Nigeria.

The second day of the strategic mission featured a high-level engagement with the Egyptian Ministry of Military Production in Cairo. Discussions focused extensively on areas of mutual interest, particularly the prospects for establishing an ammunition production line in Nigeria through structured technical and industrial cooperation.

Both sides expressed strong interest in advancing the proposed collaboration and working towards the conclusion of appropriate formal agreements that would provide the necessary framework for its implementation.

The proposed initiative is consistent with Nigeria’s strategic objective of achieving greater self-reliance in critical defence production, reducing dependence on external sources and strengthening the country’s capacity to sustainably meet the equipment and operational requirements of its Armed Forces.

Since his appointment, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle MON, has remained committed to advancing the Federal Government’s vision of developing a modern and robust military-industrial complex in Nigeria, in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

The vision seeks to strengthen national defence self-reliance, enhance national security, promote indigenous innovation and technological development, create economic opportunities and position defence industrialisation as a catalyst for broader national development.

For more details
https://t.co/TWsaYAsLqE

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

@TinubuAgain2027 One good tenure deserves another. Let the great work continue 💪🏽🤝♾️

[Ahmad Dan Wudil Esq. @AhmadDanwudil]

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE PRESS RELEASE

Service members’ health is paramount to us, we must ensure access to comprehensive healthcare for service members and their families – Minister Matawalle

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has identified health insurance as a central pillar in the drive to reduce the financial burden of healthcare on service members and as a strategic instrument to achieve financial protection in health and expand coverage to the troops.

Matawalle disclosed this during a meeting with the Director General/CEO of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Dr. Kelechi Ohiri, and his team in his office at Ship House, today, Tuesday.

Addressing the team, Minister Matawalle said that the meeting provided an opportunity for stakeholders to reflect, re-strategise, and reinforce shared commitments to sustainable healthcare services for personnel and their families. He emphasised that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with a pharmaceutical firm from Egypt, are planning to establish a pharmaceutical facility in Lagos as part of efforts towards serving the medical needs of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

According to him, “The Ministry of Defence will continue to support initiatives that enhance the welfare of all officers and soldiers.”

He added that service men and women are exposed to a series of risks and health hazards in the course of their military service. He further called on the NHIA to work hand in hand with Corps Commanders of Medical Services to ensure that our troops enjoy high-quality medicare.

On his part, the DG/Chief Executive Officer of NHIA, Dr. Kelechi, thanked the Honourable Minister for the opportunity to engage in discussions and for his passionate commitment to troops’ welfare. He stated that the Agency is ready to support the military in reducing the cost of drugs through its ongoing reforms and programmes, and will examine other challenges and how to improve on them.

The meeting had in attendance key stakeholders and policymakers, including the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard P. Pheelangwah, Director, Health Services Delivery, Ministry of Defence, Pharm. Adeyemi Adekunle, Director, Department of Medical Services, DHQ, Surgeon Commodore A.O Aliyu, Commander of the Nigerian Army Medical Corps, Brig. Gen. I.A Enwuchola, Director of Medical Services of the Nigerian Navy, Surgeon Commodore M.J Salihu, Commander of the Nigerian Air Force Medical Corps, AVM I.J Ogbodo, Director General, Ministry of Defence Health Implementation Programme, Brig. Gen. I.B Solebo, Director General/CEO, Defence Health Management Limited, R. Admiral A.B. Afolayan (rtd), among others.

Ahmad Dan-Wudil
Personal Assistant on Media
Office of the Honourable Minister of State for Defence
Ministry of Defence, Abuja
17th February, 2026

[Ahmad Dan Wudil Esq. @AhmadDanwudil]

VIDEO: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departs Abuja for a one-day official visit to Kebbi State to inaugurate projects executed by Governor Dr. Nasir Idris and attend the 61st edition of the 2026 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. @Bellomatawalle1, is part of the presidential entourage accompanying Mr. President.

[Ahmad Dan Wudil Esq. @AhmadDanwudil]

2025 In Review: Tackling Nigeria’s Challenges

#PoliticsTonight #2025Review #TVCNews #NewsInNigeria @Bellomatawalle1 #RenewedHope 🇳🇬

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

@timi_of_lagos Is even more irresponsible not to be aware of your surroundings. You’re also endangering yourself. NGL what he did was perfect except for the beating

[Dr. Bello Matawalle @Bellomatawalle1]

Yesterday, I had the honor of declaring the 60th Anniversary of DICON and the African Defence Industries Conference closed. This event showcased the resilience, innovation, and collaboration that define our nation’s defense sector.

Over the past few days, I have witnessed incredible achievements—from the groundbreaking innovations of our indigenous companies to the strong support from our international partners. These efforts reflect our shared commitment to building a stronger, more self-reliant Nigeria.

I want to thank Almighty Allah for the success of this event and extend my deepest gratitude to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for his unwavering support of the Armed Forces and DICON, which underscores his dedication to our nation’s security.

To our local defense companies, your dedication to excellence has set a new standard. To our international partners, I am confident that the collaborations formed during this conference will greatly enhance our defense capabilities.

A special appreciation goes to the Director-General of DICON, Major General AE Edet, and the entire management and staff of DICON. Your hard work has made our nation proud.

As we move forward, I am filled with renewed hope and determination. Together, we will continue to build a resilient and self-reliant Nigeria.
#StrongerTogether 🇳🇬

[Dr. Bello Matawalle @Bellomatawalle1]

Yesterday, we took a major step towards defense self-sufficiency by signing a Memorandum of Understanding and a joint venture agreement between the Ministry of Defence, DICON, and NASENI to begin local ammunition production. This partnership aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources, boost military readiness, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria's defense industry. This initiative supports the Federal Government's Renewed Hope Agenda for industrial growth, technological innovation, and enhanced national security.
#StrongerTogether 🇳🇬

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

One unexpected challenge I've faced is interacting wit individuals shaped by environments of survival rather dan luv. They grew up in homes where competition was fierce and relentless. If dey've had to fight for their place within their own family, imagine how dey'll engage wit u

[Dr. Bello Matawalle @Bellomatawalle1]

Last night's Navy Regimental Dinner was more than just a gathering; it was a testament to the dedication and sacrifices of our retired officers. I am grateful for the warm reception and the opportunity to celebrate the invaluable contributions of our retired officers.

[Abdulwali Anwar Tahir @AbdulwaliTahir]

The immediate past Minister of Communication and Digital Economy @ProfIsaPantami today visited the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle MON in his office at Abuja.

[Abdulwali Anwar Tahir @AbdulwaliTahir]

STOP THE BLAME GAME AND FACE GOVERNANCE IN ZAMFARA

I wonder why the present administration in Zamfara is creating blame game on the former Governor. The present Governor, former Governor and the Member Federal House of Assembly are all from Zamfara where insecurity....
1/7

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, His Excellency (Dr.) Bello Matawalle MON, @bellomatawalle1 graced the occasion by attending the passing out ceremony of several Nigerian Navy officers, which was held in Onne, Rivers State.

[Ramadhan Mijinyawa @Ramadanmijinya1]

Nigeria's Defence Minister H.E.Muhammad Badaru mni, State Minster of Defence H.E. Dr. @Bellomatawalle1 MON, on Tuesday held a round table discussion with the representatives of the United Nations Office of the Counter Terrorism Affairs at the Defence Head quarter Abuja.

[Abdulwali Anwar Tahir @AbdulwaliTahir]

Governor Matawalle observed his civic responsibility where he cast his vote in his polling unit of Kanwuri at his hometown of Maradun.

Victory is for Matawalle and the APC In Shaa Allah.

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

Just posted a photo @ Kano, Nigeria https://t.co/4cLJUrY5Sg

[Ramadhan Mijinyawa @Ramadanmijinya1]

Mass defection Hits @pdp_zamfara as State woman leader,ward leaders, and all the party chair ladies dumped for @OfficialAPCNg in Zamfara State. The decampees were warmly received by the peoples Governor Hon.Dr. @Bellomatawalle1 MoN and assured them of working round the table.

[J o e A l i @JoeAli007]

Governor Bello Matawalle : GOV MATAWALLE HOLDS INVESTMENT MEETING WITH ECOWAS BANK: https://t.co/JE9CDMz9nX

[Abdulwali Anwar Tahir @AbdulwaliTahir]

His Excellency, Governor (Dr.) @Bellomatawalle1 has been appointed by the National Leadership of the @OfficialAPCNg to head and oversee the Venue and Site Servicing for the upcoming National Convention of the party.

[Dr. Bello Matawalle @Bellomatawalle1]

This will be accomplished through social transfer, livelihood grants, basic infrastructure provision:(82,321) beneficiaries, recovery of small scale businesses: (8,500) beneficiaries, food security and maintenance of supply chains for poor households (61,286) beneficiaries.