President Bola Tinubu has nominated the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to serve as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence. The announcement came less than a day after the former minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, stepped down citing health concerns.

According to a letter sent to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and released by Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga, the president described Musa as a capable hand who can help strengthen the country’s security framework at a critical moment.

The Senate is scheduled to screen the retired general today.

Senate Moves Quickly

The upper chamber signaled it would fast-track the process, given the heightened security challenges across the country. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele said in a statement on Tuesday that lawmakers would treat the hearing as a matter of urgent national importance.

Bamidele explained that the president’s request, already in the Senate’s possession, would be read on the floor today before the screening begins. He noted that Section 147 of the 1999 Constitution requires a prompt response from lawmakers when a ministerial vacancy affects national security.

“We cannot afford delays at this point in our nation’s history,” Bamidele said, emphasising that leadership at the Defence Ministry is essential to maintaining pressure on terrorists, bandits and other violent groups. He added that the government’s declared state of emergency on security requires close cooperation between the executive and the National Assembly.

Profile of a Veteran Officer

General Musa, 58, is widely respected for his extensive field experience and command roles in various conflict zones. He served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025.

Born in Sokoto on December 25, 1967, Musa completed his early education in the state before attending the College of Advanced Studies in Zaria. He enrolled at the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1986 and earned a Bachelor of Science degree before being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in 1991.

Throughout his career, he held several key positions, including:

• General Staff Officer 1, Training and Operations, HQ 81 Division

• Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion

• Assistant Director, Operational Requirements, Army Policy and Plans

• Infantry Representative, Nigerian Army Armour Corps Training Team

Musa also played central roles in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations. In 2019, he served as Commander of Sector 3 under Operation Lafiya Dole and later led Sector 3 of the Multinational Joint Task Force in the Lake Chad region. He was appointed Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai in 2021 before becoming Commander of the Infantry Corps. Tinubu named him Chief of Defence Staff in 2023.

His service has been recognised internationally, including the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.

Support from Plateau Governor

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang welcomed the nomination, applauding the president for selecting a man he described as courageous, disciplined and deeply committed to national unity. In a statement issued by his Director of Press, Gyang Bere, the governor said Musa had shown resilience and professional excellence during his military career.

Mutfwang expressed confidence that the former defence chief would bring renewed focus and effective strategy to the fight against terrorism, banditry and other violent threats. He added that Musa’s appointment reflected his long-standing dedication to improving Nigeria’s security architecture.

Behind the Scenes of Badaru’s Exit

Meanwhile, findings by THISDAY suggest that Badaru’s resignation had been anticipated for some time. According to the newspaper’s sources, the former minister was initially expected to leave during the last cabinet reshuffle but had reportedly pleaded for more time.

The situation reportedly deteriorated after the abduction of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State. With Badaru out of town at the time, President Tinubu directed the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, to immediately relocate to the affected area. According to THISDAY, that moment made it clear that Badaru’s tenure had effectively run its course.

The newspaper also reported that more changes could occur within the security sector as the president considers broader adjustments to reinforce the country’s defence leadership.