Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office, a decision the presidency says was prompted by health concerns at a time when the country is battling persistent security challenges. His exit has intensified speculation that former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, may be returning to government in a new capacity.

Resignation Confirmed by the Presidency

The announcement came late on Monday. According to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Badaru tendered a resignation letter dated December 1 in which he informed President Bola Tinubu that medical reasons had made it necessary for him to step aside.

Onanuga noted that President Tinubu accepted the resignation immediately and expressed appreciation for Badaru’s service. He added that the president is expected to notify the Senate of a new minister later this week.

Badaru, 63, previously served two terms as governor of Jigawa State between 2015 and 2023 before joining Tinubu’s cabinet in August 2023.

Growing Speculation Around Christopher Musa

Meanwhile, several sources in Abuja suggested that General Musa may be the leading candidate to take over the ministry. According to reports from multiple political correspondents, Musa met privately with President Tinubu shortly before the news of Badaru’s departure became public, fueling talk of a possible appointment.

General Musa served as Nigeria’s 18th Chief of Defence Staff, appointed on June 23, 2023. During his tenure, he oversaw major restructuring and modernisation initiatives across the armed forces. He was also known for promoting civil-military cooperation, often pushing for humanitarian support and development projects to accompany security operations.

Before becoming CDS, Musa commanded Operation Hadin Kai in the North East, where he led campaigns against insurgent groups.

His tenure as CDS ended on October 24, 2025, when President Tinubu implemented a sweeping reshuffle of the military hierarchy and appointed General Olufemi Oluyede as his replacement.

Security Climate Heightens Urgency

Badaru’s departure comes as President Tinubu has declared a national security emergency, with further details expected in the coming days. Security analysts say the timing of the resignation places additional pressure on the presidency to quickly fill the role.

Dr. Hassan Abdulrahman, a Abuja-based defence analyst, said the decision to consider Musa would not be surprising. He explained that Musa’s experience in counterinsurgency and organisational reform “would give the government a seasoned hand at a moment when insecurity remains a defining national concern.”

What Comes Next

The presidency has not made an official announcement on Badaru’s successor. However, expectations are high that the decision will be communicated to the Senate before the week ends.

As Nigeria continues to navigate rising insecurity, the selection of a new defence minister will likely influence the direction of the administration’s security agenda in the months ahead.