Nigerians Welcome General Christopher Musa’s Nomination as Defence Minister
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s nomination of General Christopher Musa (rtd.) as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence has continued to generate widespread commendation across the country.
The President forwarded the nomination to Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday, expressing strong confidence in the former Chief of Defence Staff’s capacity to reinforce Nigeria’s security framework. The announcement was conveyed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
General Musa’s nomination comes shortly after the resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down on health grounds. Musa was seen at the Presidential Villa a day before the announcement, where he held a private meeting with the President.
Reactions to the nomination have been swift and positive from political leaders, security stakeholders and citizens.
Governor Mutfwang Applauds Tinubu
Plateau State Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang praised the President’s decision, describing General Musa as a courageous and highly competent military officer. In a statement by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor highlighted Musa’s distinguished service record, including his roles as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Commander of the Infantry Corps, and leader in both Operation Lafiya Dole and the Multinational Joint Task Force.
Mutfwang noted that Musa’s appointment reflects Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening national security and combating terrorism, banditry and other security challenges. He expressed confidence that Musa will bring renewed energy and strategic depth to the Defence Ministry.
Gov. Uba Sani: A “Well-Deserved” Appointment
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani also celebrated the nomination in a post on X, describing Musa as a “round peg in a round hole.” He said the former CDS had played a crucial role in stabilising communities previously plagued by insecurity in Kaduna State, offering wise counsel and firm support to state authorities.
Governor Sani urged the Senate to expedite the screening process, stressing that Musa’s integrity, dedication and experience make him a capable leader for the defence sector.
Shehu Sani, Others Hail the Nomination
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani echoed the governor’s remarks on X, stating that Musa’s selection perfectly fits the demands of the office.
Similarly, APC chieftain Adamu Garba issued a strong message to terrorists, warning that Musa’s emergence signals tougher days ahead for criminal elements. In an emphatic post on X, Garba said terrorists must either surrender or face the consequences, adding that Musa’s appointment boosts public confidence in the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism.
He further described Musa as a “military technocrat” whose rise to the position was based on merit, competence and performance.
As Nigerians await the Senate’s confirmation, the optimism surrounding General Musa’s return to national service underscores the high expectations placed on him to strengthen the armed forces and reinvigorate the nation’s fight against insecurity.