
By Mahmoud Muhammad Kano
General Christopher Gwabi Musa is set to become Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, following his nomination by President Bola Tinubu.
This move comes after the resignation of Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down citing health reasons.
General Musa, a seasoned military officer, has a wealth of experience in security and defence.
He served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 to October 2025 and has held various strategic positions, including Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai and Commander of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps.
The President has expressed confidence in General Musa’s ability to lead the Ministry of Defence and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
The nomination is subject to confirmation by the Senate.
*General Musa’s Background:*
– Born in Sokoto in 1967
– Commissioned into the Nigerian Army in 1991
– Served in various capacities, including General Staff Officer 1, Training/Operations, and Commanding Officer, 73 Battalion
– Winner of the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering in 2012.
The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria has welcomed the nomination, urging the Senate to expedite the confirmation process. The association emphasized that General Musa’s success depends on President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security challenges .