Senate confirms Gen. Musa as defence minister
The Senate on Wednesday confirmed retired General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence after an extended screening focused on recent security failures and his plans to strengthen national defence.
Musa, nominated by President Bola Tinubu after Mohammed Badaru’s resignation, faced tough questions on the withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, before the November 17 student abduction. He promised a “full-scale investigation” once in office.
He also addressed the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba in Borno State, vowing swift action against terrorists. Musa highlighted major gaps in Nigeria’s defence structure and called for better coordination, increased funding, stronger intelligence gathering, and a national security database.
The nominee warned against negotiating with kidnappers, saying ransom payments fuel further violence. He stressed that terrorism affects all Nigerians equally and is not targeted at any single group.
The screening briefly grew tense when some lawmakers suggested he “take a bow and go,” but others insisted on full questioning. Senate President Godswill Akpabio maintained that a thorough process was necessary.
After answering all questions, Musa received unanimous approval through a voice vote, clearing him to lead the defence ministry at a time of heightened insecurity.
