Abuja – President Bola Tinubu on Thursday swore in retired General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s Minister of Defence in a brief ceremony held in the President’s office at the Presidential Villa. The event was witnessed by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the current Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede, the President of the Senate and Rev. Dr. Mathew Hassan Kukah, Bishop of the Sokoto Diocese.
The swearing‑in came just a day after the Senate screened and confirmed General Musa, who had faced more than three hours of questioning that included a rowdy session. During that hearing, General Musa criticised negotiations with armed groups and questioned the reintegration of repentant Boko Haram members, insisting that terrorists should face stricter punitive measures. He also called for increased funding for military operations, noting that essential equipment is still largely imported.
General Musa was nominated by President Tinubu earlier in the week to replace Mohammed Badaru, who resigned as Defence Minister due to ill health. His appointment follows less than two months after he was relieved of his duties as Chief of Defence Staff. With Musa’s confirmation, the federal cabinet is back to 48 members.
In his remarks after taking the oath, General Musa pledged to pursue a tougher stance against insurgents and to improve the welfare and equipment of the armed forces. The President praised the Senate for its expedited confirmation and expressed confidence that the new minister would strengthen Nigeria’s defence posture.
