The Senate on Wednesday confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence after a rigorous five-hour screening.
He assured lawmakers that a full investigation into the troop withdrawal would be launched once he assumes office. Musa also vowed to probe the killing of Brigade Commander Brig.-Gen. Musa Uba in Borno State and other recent attacks on military personnel.
“It is very unfortunate and painful. We will not stand by and allow terrorists the capacity to carry out such acts,” he said, pledging coordinated action with all security agencies and MDAs. He emphasised improving oversight, boosting funding, strengthening community engagement, and enhancing inter-agency cooperation.
Musa highlighted the need to secure schools under the Safe Schools Initiative and maintain a zero-tolerance stance against terrorism and banditry.
The screening was not without tension. Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) moved that the nominee “take a bow and go,” drawing objections from colleagues, including Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South). Senate President Godswill Akpabio intervened, insisting on a thorough vetting given national and international interest.
Musa, nominated on Tuesday by President Bola Tinubu following the resignation of former Defence Minister Badaru Mohammed on health grounds, pledged to prioritise national security and the protection of lives and territory.
“I pledge to do my best to ensure Nigeria is secure. We need the support of every Nigerian. The enemies we face are evil forces without regard for human life,” he said.
His confirmation comes amid rising concerns over kidnappings, insurgency, and mass abductions across the country.
