Musa Defence Minister confirmation praised by Tinubu as timely, with new leadership expected to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges

ABUJA, Nigeria, 4 December 2025: President Bola Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Senate for its rapid confirmation of General Christopher G. Musa (retd.) as the new Minister of Defence, describing the appointment as both timely and essential for national security.

Also read: Tinubu nominates General Christopher Musa as Defence Minister

The President disclosed the nomination was forwarded to the Senate two days prior to confirmation.

In a statement released on his official X handle on Thursday, Tinubu described Musa, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, as “a fine gentleman” whose leadership will be critical in addressing the country’s escalating security challenges.

“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,” the President wrote.

The Senate confirmed Musa on Wednesday after a rigorous five-hour screening session, during which lawmakers questioned him on recent security breaches, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, just days before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.

General Musa assured the Senate he would launch a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal and pledged to probe the killing of Brigade Commander Brigadier General Musa Uba in Borno State, alongside other attacks on senior military officers.

Also read: ECOWAS activates counter-terrorism brigade in bold $2.5bn security push

The appointment follows the resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, reportedly due to health reasons, marking a significant transition in the federal government’s effort to strengthen national security.