President Bola Tinubu on Thursday swore in retired General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, tasking him with using his extensive military experience to strengthen the nation’s defence posture and tackle the worsening security situation.
General Musa’s appointment follows the sudden resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru on Monday, which came amid heightened national concern over insecurity. The former Chief of Defence Staff was swiftly nominated, confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday, and inaugurated at a brief ceremony in Abuja.
President Tinubu charged the new minister to bring his “extensive operational experience, strategic depth, and institutional knowledge of the Armed Forces to bear” on the role. The President emphasized that Musa’s leadership must prioritize synergy among the military services, accelerate reforms, sustain momentum in joint operations, ensure procurement transparency, and improve the welfare of personnel.
“The defence ministry under Musa’s leadership must prioritise synergy among the services, accelerate reforms, and sustain momentum in ongoing joint operations,” the President stated.
A Pledge from the New Minister
General Musa, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Chief of Defence Staff until June, is widely regarded as one of the most experienced officers of his generation, having commanded counter-terrorism operations in the North-East. In his pledge, he assured President Tinubu of his total commitment to the vision for a safer Nigeria.
“We will not relent. We will sustain the pressure on the enemies of the state and ensure that peace returns to every community,” Musa vowed. He promised to prioritize troop morale, intelligence-led operations, and collaboration with local communities.
Following the swearing-in, senior government officials including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and service chiefs congratulated the new minister, expressing confidence that his appointment signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s security management.
Disclaimer:
This article reports on an official government appointment and swearing-in ceremony. CDA News presents this as a significant political and security development of national importance.
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