President Tinubu Hails Senate’s Swift Confirmation as Gen Musa Takes Helm As Defence Minister

General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, was sworn in on Thursday as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence at a ceremony in the State House, Abuja, presided over by President Bola Tinubu.

The appointment follows the expedited confirmation of General Musa by the Senate on Wednesday, just two days after his nomination was submitted.

In a social media post, President Tinubu commended the Senate’s swift action, stating, “I want to commend the Nigerian Senate for its expedited confirmation of General Musa yesterday. His appointment comes at a critical juncture in our lives as a Nation.”

The President described the retired General as “a fine gentleman” whose experience is vital for the country’s current security challenges. He emphasized that Musa’s leadership record and understanding of the complex security landscape make him well-suited to advance the administration’s defence priorities.

During the ceremony, President Tinubu charged the new minister to leverage his extensive operational and strategic background to strengthen Nigeria’s defence posture. Key focus areas outlined include fostering synergy among service branches, ensuring procurement transparency, improving personnel welfare, and deepening inter-agency cooperation.

In his response, General Musa pledged unwavering commitment to the role, vowing to enhance operational efficiency and modernize defence capabilities.

“We will not relent. We will sustain the pressure on the enemies of the state and ensure that peace returns to every community,” he stated, adding that troop morale and community collaboration would be prioritized.

The appointment concludes the leadership gap in the Defence Ministry following the resignation of former minister Abubakar Badaru. Security analysts have welcomed the choice, noting that a career officer of Musa’s stature is expected to bring discipline and clarity to defence policy implementation.

Senior government officials, including National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu and service chiefs, were present at the ceremony to congratulate the new minister. General Musa is expected to begin his tenure with immediate briefings from military and ministry officials.