Tinubu Swears In Gen. Christopher Musa as New Defence Minister
December 4, 2025
By Ayinde Adeleke
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday administered the oath of office on former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), officially naming him Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence. The brief ceremony took place at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Musa’s swearing-in comes less than 24 hours after the Senate confirmed his nomination following an intense five-hour screening session. During the screening, lawmakers questioned him on recent security lapses, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
Responding to the concerns, Musa told the Senate that he would immediately initiate a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal once he assumes duty. He also pledged to probe the killing of Brigade Commander, Brig-Gen. Musa Uba, in Borno State, as well as other deadly attacks on senior military officers.
His appointment comes on the heels of the resignation of former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, who stepped down reportedly on health grounds.
