Defence Minister Gen. Musa vows tougher, unified security strategy to overwhelm Nigeria’s enemies

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, on Friday pledged to deepen coordination across the Armed Forces and intensify nationwide security operations, declaring that the era of fragmented responses to insecurity must end.

Speaking shortly after assuming office at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Abuja, Musa said his leadership would focus on unified, intelligence-driven joint operations capable of overwhelming criminal elements threatening the country.

“Our goal is to overwhelm the enemy through jointness and seamless coordination,” he stated, announcing that an immediate review of all theatre commands and inter-service operations would commence to bridge gaps between policy formulation and field execution.

Musa, who previously served as Chief of Defence Staff before his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasised that national security must be treated as a shared responsibility requiring collaboration, clarity of purpose, and moral commitment from all stakeholders.

The minister placed strong emphasis on troop welfare, describing it as a strategic pillar of operational success.

“Welfare is not administrative; it is strategic. Morale is a force multiplier. Our personnel must receive their kits on time. Their operational allowances must be paid promptly. Accommodation, medical care, and support for injured personnel and families of the fallen must be priorities,” he said.

He stressed that men and women risking their lives for Nigeria deserve unwavering support, respect and dignity, adding that the Defence Ministry under his watch would ensure smooth, timely and accountable systems for troop welfare.

Musa further urged national unity in confronting both kinetic and non-kinetic dimensions of insecurity. He noted that issues around governance, justice, fairness and equity also fuel instability and must be addressed alongside military efforts.

“The shedding of innocent blood must end. Our children deserve to return to school. Farmers must return to their farms. Many of these issues require a comprehensive, balanced approach,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to lead with fairness, integrity and accountability.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Richard Pheelangwa, described Musa’s arrival as a “homecoming,” expressing confidence that his experience and leadership would further strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, also pledged total support from the Armed Forces, noting that Musa had always been accessible, firm and committed to the nation’s security. He called for unity, sincerity and collective action to help rebuild public confidence in the military.