President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday officially swore in Retired General Christopher Musa, former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence at the State House, Abuja.
The ceremony follows his confirmation by the Senate on Wednesday after a rigorous five-hour screening.
During his Senate confirmation, General Musa was extensively questioned about recent security lapses, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
Addressing lawmakers, Musa pledged to immediately launch a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal upon assuming office.
He also vowed to investigate the killing of Brigade Commander Brigadier-General Musa Uba in Borno State, alongside other attacks targeting senior military officers.
Speaking after his swearing-in, security analysts hailed the appointment as a strategic move that brings a wealth of operational experience to the Ministry. Dr. Salisu Ahmed, a security expert, noted:
“General Musa’s tenure as CDS gives him firsthand understanding of operational challenges in Nigeria’s most volatile regions. His investigations into recent lapses and targeted attacks on officers will be critical for restoring public confidence.”
However, analysts caution that the new Defence Minister faces immediate pressure to curb insurgency and banditry, particularly in the North-East and North-West, where abductions and attacks have heightened in recent months.
General Musa’s appointment signals a renewed government focus on addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, reinforcing the need for accountability, strategic troop deployment, and protection of vulnerable communities.
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