Matawalle’s Educational Background Not Up to SSCE — Says Shinkafi

Security analyst Dr. Sani Shinkafi has raised serious concerns over the educational qualifications of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, questioning his capacity to oversee Nigeria’s defence and security affairs.

In an interview with AIT, Shinkafi alleged that Matawalle’s academic credentials, as presented during his 2023 ministerial screening, do not meet the minimum requirements for such a critical national role. According to Shinkafi, the documents submitted to the National Assembly reportedly indicate that Matawalle’s educational background falls short of the equivalence of a Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSCE).

Shinkafi argued that this gap in academic qualification casts doubt on Matawalle’s ability to manage Nigeria’s complex security architecture effectively. He emphasized that leadership in the defence sector demands a solid foundation in security studies, military knowledge, or other relevant expertise.

Referencing the tenure of former Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru, who resigned recently, Shinkafi noted that although Badaru is an accountant by training, he also lacked direct military or security experience. He added that Nigeria’s escalating security challenges require leaders with hands-on exposure to military operations, strategic defence planning, and a clear understanding of the country’s geographical vulnerabilities.

“Relying solely on administrative or political experience is no longer sufficient,” Shinkafi said, highlighting the persistent threats of terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges confronting the nation.

He further called for the Ministry of Defence to be headed by individuals with the necessary qualifications, technical competence, and expertise to design and implement robust national security policies capable of ensuring lasting solutions.