Bello Muhammad Matawalle (born February 12, 1969) is a Nigerian politician and teacher currently serving as the Minister of State for Defence. Before this role, he was the Governor of Zamfara State from 2019 to 2023.
Early Life and Education
Bello Matawalle was born in Maradun, in what is now Zamfara State. His education includes primary school in Maradun, VTC Bunza, Yaba College of Technology, and Thames Valley University where he obtained a Diploma in Educational Planning and Administration. He worked as a teacher and with the Federal Ministry of Water Resources before his political career.
Career before politics
- Began his career as a clerical officer in the old Sokoto State Ministry of Health in 1985.
- Worked as a classroom teacher before moving into educational administration.
- Served as a Commissioner for Local Government and Chiefty Affairs in Zamfara State from 1999 to 2003.
Political Career
Matawalle’s political career started in 1998.
- State Level (1999-2003): He served as a state Commissioner in various roles.
- Federal Level (2003-2015): He was a member of the House of Representatives for the Bakura/Maradun constituency for three terms. He chaired the House Committee on National Security, Intelligence & Public Safety.
- Governor of Zamfara State (2019-2023): He became governor following a Supreme Court ruling. His term focused on security challenges.
- Minister of State for Defence (2023-Present): Appointed by President Bola Tinubu in August 2023.
Matawalle has switched political parties, moving from ANPP to PDP and then to APC in 2021.
Personal Life
Matawalle is married with children. He holds traditional titles, including the Matawallen Maradun.
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