The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has urged President Bola Tinubu to appoint former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), as the country’s next Minister of Defence, following the resignation of Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, NCSCN Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu, commended the former minister for his service and noted that his exit opened a critical opportunity for renewed leadership in the defence sector.
Akinlosotu said the council believes General Musa—who served as Chief of Defence Staff from June 23, 2023, until his removal on October 24, 2025—possesses the experience, strategic depth, and leadership qualities needed to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
He highlighted several achievements recorded under Musa’s tenure, including reforms within the Armed Forces, enhanced regional security cooperation, improved military training and equipment, and strengthened professionalism across the services.
Akinlosotu also credited Musa with contributing significantly to Operation Hadarin Daji, which led to the recovery of territories previously held by terrorists.
According to the NCSCN, appointing Musa would reinforce President Tinubu’s commitment to merit-based public service and bolster efforts to address widespread insecurity.
In a separate statement, APC chieftain Muritala Audu also endorsed Musa for the role, describing him as “a stabilising force” during his tenure as the 18th Chief of Defence Staff.
Audu noted that under Operation Hadin Kai, Musa oversaw major gains, including a marked reduction in insurgent attacks and the rescue of more than 1,500 hostages.
He further cited Musa’s push for technology-driven defence reforms—such as drone surveillance, cyber-defence enhancements, and modernised intelligence systems—as well as his emphasis on civil-military cooperation, which delivered dozens of schools, healthcare centres, and youth empowerment programmes in conflict-affected areas.
General Musa’s leadership, Audu added, has earned him international recognition, including the Colin Powell Meritorious Award for Soldiering and the Nelson Mandela Exemplary Leadership Award.
The Federal Government is expected to nominate a new defence minister in the coming days.
