New Defence Minister Musa promises swift action against insecurity

Newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has vowed rapid improvements in Nigeria’s security, assuring citizens they will see “tangible results within the shortest possible time.”

Speaking at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, after taking his oath of office before President Bola Tinubu on Thursday, Musa said he had been given a clear mandate to confront kidnappers, bandits and other criminal groups to ensure Nigerians can safely return to their farms, schools and homes.

“I have a mandate to go after kidnappers, bandits and criminals,” he said. “Nigerians will see results soon.”

Musa listed his immediate priority as restoring synergy among the armed forces and security agencies, stressing that “security is everybody’s responsibility.”

He said President Tinubu had charged him to deliver security that would be felt nationwide.

“Nigerians should sleep with their eyes closed. Schools must open without molestation,” he added.

Musa was confirmed by the Senate on Wednesday after a five-hour screening.

He succeeds Mohammed Badaru, who resigned on December 1, 2025.

The 58-year-old retired general, who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 to October 2025, is returning to familiar terrain.

A recipient of the Colin Powell Award for Soldiering, he has held several key command roles, including Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai.