After rigorous screening, Senate confirms ex-CDS C.J Musa as Defence Minister

The Senate on Wednesday confirmed the appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence after an intensive five-hour screening that tested his command of the nation’s pressing security challenges.

His confirmation came barely twenty-four hours after President Bola Tinubu transmitted his name to the upper chamber, signalling the urgency the presidency attaches to the leadership of the defence sector.

Musa steps into the role at a time when insecurity, especially the resurgence of mass school abductions, has become a deepening national concern.

His appearance before lawmakers coincided with nationwide outrage over the kidnapping of 25 students in Maga, Kebbi State, an attack that occurred shortly after reports emerged that soldiers previously stationed around the school had withdrawn.

The development raised questions that dominated his screening.

Responding to the concerns, Musa assured senators that one of his first responsibilities as minister would be to investigate the alleged troop withdrawal, insisting that the Nigerian Armed Forces do not abandon operational zones without cause.

He stressed that whatever led to the incident would be uncovered and addressed decisively.

“We are going to go after them fully, working together with all the security agencies and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of government,” he said, reinforcing his commitment to an integrated security strategy.

Accompanied by family members, the minister-designate told lawmakers that the matter would receive thorough scrutiny.

He noted that both the Armed Forces and the Ministry of Defence have established structures for oversight, and under his leadership, these mechanisms would be strengthened to ensure accountability and operational efficiency.

Musa pledged to deepen inter-agency coordination, emphasising that Nigeria’s diverse security challenges demand a unified and disciplined response.

His remarks reflected a resolve to restore confidence in the national security architecture and confront threats with renewed vigour.

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