Tinubu Swears In Gen. Musa as Defence Minister

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday swore in General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Retired) as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, signaling a firm step in the administration’s ongoing security restructuring.

The ceremony, held at the President’s office in the State House, Abuja, formally marked the transition of the former Chief of Defence Staff into the country’s top defence policy role.

The appointment, coming less than 48 hours after the resignation of former Defence Minister Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, underscores the President’s insistence on maintaining momentum in national security operations. Tinubu described General Musa as a “fine gentleman” whose distinguished military career and leadership credentials make him well-suited to drive a more coordinated and proactive defence strategy.

General Musa, 58, had previously served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025, a period in which he led major counterterrorism operations, strengthened inter-agency collaboration, and pushed for improved tactical responses across theatres of operation. His tenure earned commendations within the military establishment for tightening joint-service cooperation and expanding intelligence-driven missions.

The swift transition from nomination to confirmation also signaled a united front between the executive and legislative arms on security priorities. The President transmitted Musa’s nomination to the Senate just two days earlier, and lawmakers promptly confirmed him, a process Tinubu hailed as a demonstration of shared commitment to stabilizing the country.

“With General Musa, we have someone who understands the terrain, the troops, and the threats we face,” President Tinubu said after the swearing-in. He added that the new minister’s experience would be indispensable as Nigeria works to consolidate recent gains and dismantle persistent security threats.

Following the oath-taking, General Musa immediately assumed ministerial responsibilities, inheriting a portfolio central to national stability. His mandate includes strengthening military readiness, deepening intelligence coordination, accelerating reforms in defence procurement, and supporting joint operations against insurgents, bandits, and other armed groups.

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Security analysts have noted that his appointment comes at a critical time, with the nation seeking to build on recent improvements in operational zones in the North-East and North-West. The Tinubu administration is also pushing for broader reforms aimed at modernizing the armed forces, improving troop welfare, and enhancing technological capabilities.

Government insiders say the President expects quick, measurable progress under Musa’s leadership, particularly in restoring public confidence, reducing violent attacks, and sustaining pressure on criminal networks. The Defence Ministry will also play a key role in ongoing collaborations with regional and international partners focused on counterterrorism and intelligence sharing.

In his brief remarks after the ceremony, General Musa expressed gratitude for the President’s confidence and pledged total commitment to advancing Nigeria’s security goals. He vowed to work closely with service chiefs, security agencies, and other stakeholders to deliver “lasting peace and stability.”

As the Tinubu administration intensifies its security overhaul, Musa’s appointment represents both continuity and renewed urgency signaling that the government is determined to keep defence operations on a steady, aggressive footing.