President Goodluck Jonathan has been commended for picking a former National Security Adviser (NSA), General Aliyu Mohammed Gusau (rtd) as a ministerial nominee.
A group of northern youths christened Arewa Integrity Forum (AIG), said Gusau remains the best option at this time to stem the renewed attacks by the dreaded Islamist sect, Boko Haram.
According to a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, the group posited that the vast experience of the retired four-star general was needed to tackle insurgency especially in the north eastern part of the country.
The group’s Chairman, Abdullahi Ladan and Secretary, Aminu Sokoto, also noted that the former NSA’s vast network in and around the sub-region would go a long way in building cross border synergy to tackle insecurity issues in the country and stem cross border operations of militant groups.
“President Jonathan could not have settled for a more natural choice if he picks Gen. Aliyu Gusau to head the Ministry of Defence especially at this time when the nation requires experienced and dedicated individuals to help address the security challenges in the country,” Ladan and Sokoto posited.
The AIG explained that Gusau has a large following in the country, which they said was a great asset to the country’s search for stability particularly in the run down to the 2015 elections.
The statement reads further, “We have no doubt that President Goodluck Jonathan has made a great choice in the nomination of Gen, Aliyu Gusau as a ministerial nominee and hopefully, Minister of Defence.
“The AIG believes that if Gusau is appointed to the Ministry of Defence, it will go a long way in stemming the activities of the Boko Haram sect as well as other militant groups in the country as he will bring his vast wealth of experience and network to bear on the office.
“We wish to say that those opposed to his nomination are ignorant and mischievous of his importance in security circles not only in the country but across the sub region as a former Army Chief and National Security Adviser on more than one occasion.”
