US Lawmaker Calls for Matawalle's Removal

Kimberly Daniels, a U.S. lawmaker and chairwoman of the United World Congress of Diplomats, has publicly called for the immediate removal or reassignment of Bello Matawalle, Nigeria's Minister of State for Defence. This demand stems from a new international assessment highlighting Nigeria's worsening security crisis, particularly in the North Central and North West regions, and allegations of high-level complicity with banditry. Daniels urged President Bola Tinubu to 'look inward' and restructure the defense ministry, citing concerns about Matawalle's past tenure as governor of Nigeria — Zamfara State and his suitability for the role. The report also highlighted a surge in violence targeting religious gatherings during the 2026 Easter period. The United States and international partners are being urged to increase diplomatic pressure on Nigeria to ensure accountability for those accused of aiding terrorism. This development adds to growing external scrutiny of Nigeria's security situation and its designation as a Country of Particular Concern.