The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has tasked the first batch of Nigeria’s Special Operations Force (SOF) with spearheading the nation’s efforts against insecurity, terrorism, and banditry.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of their training at Camp Kabala Jaji in Kaduna on Monday, Matawalle urged the elite unit to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and patriotism in protecting citizens and national assets.
In a statement signed by his personal assistant on media,Ahmad Dan-Wudil,he declared that Nigeria must be safe and secure, affirming the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to boosting military capabilities and troop welfare.
Matawalle described the SOF as a “new frontier” in Nigeria’s security framework, saying their ability to respond swiftly and effectively to unconventional threats is vital to the country’s stability.
“You are not only warriors — you are ambassadors of the Nigerian Armed Forces and of this great nation,” he told the graduating force.
The Special Operations Force, according to the Defence Ministry, is a precision-trained unit equipped with cutting-edge technology, intelligence tools, and advanced tactical skills. Their mission includes counterterrorism and strategic operations in volatile regions.
Highlighting their role as “force multipliers,” the Minister said SOF personnel are specially trained for high-risk missions that traditional military units may be unable to execute effectively.
He stressed that the SOF would operate in coordination with land, air, and intelligence components, reinforcing joint force operations nationwide.
Also present was the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, who lauded the initiative as a cornerstone of the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at reforming the Armed Forces.
He noted that the Federal Government was focused on building military capacity and boosting morale amidst evolving security challenges.
Chief of Defence Staff, General C.G. Musa, OFR, called for a strong ethical compass among the operatives, saying, “Your duty goes beyond the battlefield — it includes the responsibility to safeguard the dignity of every Nigerian.”
He stressed that courage, honour, and loyalty must define the conduct of every SOF member.
The Minister also commended the instructors for their rigorous training of the operatives, urging the graduates to carry the same commitment into deployments across flashpoints such as the Timbuktu Triangle, Shiroro axis, Lamba Forest, and the North-East.
Reaffirming the government’s support, Matawalle said, “The Nigerian Armed Forces stand behind you.
“The Ministry of Defence stands with you. Your sacrifices and your service are critical to securing the peace, unity, and future of our nation.”
