The Senate has confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.
His confirmation on Wednesday followed an intensive screening session in which lawmakers questioned him on national security, defence reforms, and the root causes of Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had nominated the retired military chief on Tuesday and immediately transmitted his name to the upper chamber for confirmation.
NRTC earlier reported the President’s decision, describing it as part of ongoing efforts to restructure Nigeria’s security architecture.
During his screening, General Musa outlined several critical observations and proposals aimed at strengthening the nation’s security framework.
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First, he said that the Nigerian Armed Forces possess the capability to address the country’s security problems, but only if they receive consistent moral and financial backing across all levels of government.
He noted that improved welfare, logistics, and operational support would significantly enhance military effectiveness.
The nominee also highlighted structural issues at the heart of Nigeria’s instability. According to him, the security crisis is deeply connected to long-standing challenges such as poor governance, widespread poverty, and high levels of illiteracy.
He told lawmakers that addressing these underlying factors is essential to achieving sustainable peace.
General Musa further warned against negotiating with armed groups, particularly bandits, insisting that such engagements have historically failed.
He said criminal groups often use dialogue as a temporary tactic to regroup and acquire more weapons, ultimately returning to violence.
Following the screening, the Senate adopted a voice vote to confirm his appointment. With his confirmation now concluded, General Musa is expected to assume office immediately as the country looks to him for decisive reforms within the defence sector and a renewed strategy against insecurity nationwide.
