Tinubu swears in ex-CDS Christopher Musa as new Defence Minister

President Bola Tinubu has sworn in the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.

The ceremony followed Monday’s resignation of Mohammed Badaru, who stepped down amid mounting public concern over the country’s deteriorating security situation.

Barely hours after accepting Badaru’s resignation, President Tinubu forwarded General Musa’s name to the National Assembly for screening. The former CDS appeared before the Senate on Wednesday, where he was extensively questioned on Nigeria’s security challenges before being cleared and confirmed.

During the brief but solemn swearing-in ceremony, President Tinubu charged the new minister to deploy his vast operational experience, strategic insight and deep institutional knowledge of the Armed Forces to strengthen the nation’s defence architecture.

The President noted that under Musa’s leadership, the Ministry of Defence must prioritise enhanced synergy among the military services, accelerate long-delayed reforms and sustain momentum in ongoing joint operations nationwide. He also underscored the need for transparent procurement processes, improved welfare for troops and stronger collaboration with other security agencies.

General Musa, who served as Nigeria’s 18th Chief of Defence Staff until June, is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished officers of his generation. His career includes leading high-level counterterrorism operations in the North-East and providing strategic direction for military engagements across the country.

Speaking after his induction, Musa pledged unwavering commitment to the President’s vision of a safer and more stable Nigeria. He vowed to intensify operational efficiency, modernise defence capabilities and deepen cooperation with regional and global security partners.

“We will not relent. We will sustain the pressure on the enemies of the state and ensure that peace returns to every community,” he said, adding that troop morale, intelligence-driven operations and community collaboration would remain top priorities.

Following the ceremony, senior government officials—including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; service chiefs; and members of the Federal Executive Council—congratulated the new minister. They expressed confidence that his appointment marks a fresh chapter in Nigeria’s security management.

General Musa is expected to begin his first round of briefings with service chiefs and top ministry officials in the coming days as he sets out to reshape Nigeria’s defence priorities for the years ahead.