The Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence following an exhaustive five-hour screening session.
General Musa faced pointed questions from lawmakers over recent security lapses, particularly the withdrawal of troops from the Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of students on November 17 — an incident that triggered nationwide outrage.
Responding to inquiries, the nominee assured the Senate that he would launch a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the troop withdrawal immediately upon assuming office. He also pledged to probe the recent killing of a brigade commander in Borno State, Brigadier General Musa Uba, as well as other targeted attacks on military personnel.
“It is very unfortunate and painful,” he said. “We will not stand by and allow terrorists the capacity to carry out such acts. We will go after them fully, working with all security agencies and relevant government bodies.”
General Musa identified several gaps within the armed forces, calling for improved funding, stronger community engagement, and enhanced inter-agency collaboration. He also stressed the importance of securing educational institutions through the Safe Schools Initiative and reiterated a zero-tolerance stance toward terrorism and banditry.
The screening process was not without tense moments. A suggestion by Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) that the nominee be asked to “take a bow and go” sparked protests from colleagues, including Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South). Senate President Godswill Akpabio intervened, insisting on a thorough evaluation and emphasizing that both Nigerians and international observers were monitoring the proceedings closely.
General Musa was nominated by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, following the resignation of former Defence Minister, Badaru Mohammed, due to health reasons.
In his closing remarks, the Defence Minister-designate reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding lives and preserving Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“I pledge to do my best to ensure Nigeria is secure and safe. We need the support of every citizen, because this is a collective effort. The enemies we are dealing with are forces that do not mean well for this country and have no respect for human life. If we do not work together, we risk allowing them to continue their evil acts,” he said.
His confirmation comes at a time of heightened national concern over rising kidnappings, insurgency and mass abductions across parts of the country.
