President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Senate for the speedy approval of General Christopher Musa (retd.) as the country’s new Minister of Defence, describing the decision as crucial to tackling Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.
In a statement shared on his official X handle on Thursday, Tinubu revealed that he forwarded Musa’s name for screening just two days earlier.
He praised the former Chief of Defence Staff as a leader whose experience is vital at a time when the nation faces serious security concerns.
“Two days ago, I transmitted the name of General Christopher G. Musa, our immediate past Chief of Defence Staff and a fine gentleman, to the Nigerian Senate for confirmation as the Federal Minister of Defence,” the President wrote.
“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. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
General Musa was confirmed on Wednesday after a rigorous five-hour screening session during which lawmakers grilled him on recent security lapses, including the controversial withdrawal of soldiers from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
Responding to the lawmakers’ inquiries, Musa vowed to launch a thorough probe into the incident once he assumes office.
He also pledged to investigate the killing of Brig.-Gen. Musa Uba in Borno State, along with other attacks involving senior military personnel.
His appointment comes after the resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, who reportedly stepped down on health grounds.
Musa assured the Senate of his commitment to strengthening military operations and restoring public confidence.
“We will immediately set up a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal,” he said, adding that ensuring accountability within the military remains a priority.
The retired defence chief emphasized that Nigeria’s security architecture must be repositioned to respond effectively to emerging threats across the country.
