The Senate has confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence following a lengthy and highly scrutinised five-hour screening session on Wednesday.
General Musa, who was nominated by President Bola Tinubu after the resignation of former Defence Minister Badaru Mohammed on health grounds, faced probing questions from lawmakers over recent security failures, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
The withdrawal occurred shortly before armed men abducted several schoolgirls on November 17, sparking national outrage.
Addressing the chamber, Musa vowed to open a full investigation into the troop withdrawal and pledged to strengthen accountability within the Armed Forces.
“It is very unfortunate and really painful,” he told lawmakers.
“We will not stand by and allow terrorists to develop the capacity to carry out such attacks. We are going to go after them fully, working with all security agencies and MDAs. We will investigate this incident thoroughly.”
The retired General also promised to probe the recent killing of a Brigade Commander in Borno State, Brigadier General Musa Uba, along with other attacks targeting military personnel.
Musa highlighted operational and structural gaps within the Armed Forces, calling for improved funding, stronger community collaboration, and enhanced inter-agency coordination to curb insecurity nationwide. He also stressed the importance of bolstering the Safe Schools Initiative.
“Protecting our schools is crucial. We must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and banditry,” he said.
The screening was not without tension. At one point, Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) suggested the nominee be allowed to “take a bow and go” due to his credentials, a comment that drew objections from several lawmakers, including Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South). Senate President Godswill Akpabio intervened, insisting on a thorough process and noting that Nigerians and the international community were watching closely.
Musa assured the Senate that he would prioritise the safety of Nigerians and the protection of national territory.
“I pledge to do my best to ensure that Nigeria is secure and safe,” he stated.
“This fight requires teamwork. The enemies we are facing are dangerous and have no respect for human life. If we don’t work together, we risk enabling their evil acts.”
His confirmation comes at a time of heightened concern over escalating kidnappings, insurgency, and mass abductions across the country.
