The Presidency has announced that President Bola Tinubu is expected to send the name of a new Minister of Defence to the National Assembly for confirmation in the coming days. This follows the sudden resignation of the former minister, Abubakar Badaru, who cited health reasons for his departure from the cabinet.
Presidency Confirms Timeline for New Appointment
In a statement released on Monday, December 1, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, it was confirmed that President Tinubu had accepted Badaru's resignation. The statement expressed the President's gratitude for Badaru's service to the nation.
The key revelation from the Presidency was that "President Tinubu will likely inform the Senate of Badaru's successor later this week." This announcement was made concurrently with the news of the minister's resignation, indicating an effort to ensure a swift transition in the critical defence portfolio.
Mixed Reactions Trail Defence Minister's Exit
The development has sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians, with many expressing skepticism about the stated reason for the resignation and others suggesting potential successors.
Some citizens have called for the appointment of a figure with strong military credentials. Ndafte Iliya publicly urged President Tinubu to "consider bringing back Gen. Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence and Coordinating Minister of War." The commenter stressed the need for someone with military experience given the current sensitive and daring security situation in the country.
However, not everyone accepted the official narrative. Mahdi Shehu alleged that politics, not health, was the real cause. He claimed an "open clash" between Badaru and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, had created a frustrating environment, forcing the senior minister's hand.
The call for accountability extended beyond the defence ministry. Commenter Bobbee argued that Nuhu Ribadu (National Security Adviser) and Bello Matawalle should also resign, holding them accountable for the escalating insecurity measured in "lives lost and communities shattered."
Further questions were raised about operational security within the defence establishment. Olorundare Adewale demanded a thorough investigation into the ministry, questioning possible leaks and tactical failures during recent military operations.
Focus Shifts to the Senate and Security Strategy
All attention now turns to the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, which will be responsible for screening and confirming the President's nominee. The appointment comes at a time when Nigeria faces significant security challenges across multiple regions, including banditry, terrorism, and communal conflicts.
The swift timeline suggested by the Presidency underscores the urgency attached to filling this vital position. The next Minister of Defence will immediately inherit the monumental task of coordinating the nation's military response to these pervasive threats. The choice of nominee will be closely scrutinized for their experience, strategy, and capacity to restore public confidence in the country's security architecture.
