Nigeria's newly appointed Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has promised citizens that they will witness a significant improvement in the nation's security situation "within the shortest possible time." The former Chief of Defence Staff made this commitment on Thursday, December 4, 2025, shortly after taking his oath of office at the State House in Abuja.
Immediate Priorities and Presidential Mandate
General Musa outlined his immediate focus, stating his primary goal is to reposition the country's defence architecture to its rightful place. He emphasized that rebuilding synergy is non-negotiable. "The synergy between the armed forces, between the military and other security agencies, and with all Nigerians must be strengthened," he declared. He further stressed that security is a collective responsibility, a principle he plans to actively foster.
The Minister conveyed the firm directive from President Bola Tinubu, describing it as clear and non-negotiable. "Nigerians should be able to sleep with their eyes closed, return to their farms, send their children to school without fear, and live their lives without being molested," Musa stated, echoing the President's orders. He linked this security drive to the core of the administration's Renewed Hope agenda, noting that national stability is foundational for economic and social progress.
Kukah's Strong Endorsement and Call for Action
The swearing-in ceremony was attended by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Reverend Matthew Hassan Kukah, who expressed strong confidence in President Tinubu's choice. Bishop Kukah attended in a dual symbolic capacity, representing both the Sultan of Sokoto—as Gen. Musa was born in Sokoto—and the people of Southern Kaduna, where the Minister also has deep roots.
Kukah dismissed the need for further analysis of the security crisis, insisting on immediate and decisive measures. "Everybody knows what the problem is. We just need restoration of normalcy in this country by any means possible," the cleric asserted. He fully aligned himself with the Minister's earlier stance during Senate screening, which advocated for tougher, punitive measures against terrorists.
"Rain, thunder, sunshine, whatever it takes to get this mess under control. These guys need to be flushed out. Normalcy must return to our country," Kukah stated emphatically. He added that laughter and joy must be restored to Nigeria swiftly and assured that the Church would continue to pray and work for national stability.
A Nation Awaits Tangible Results
General Musa's return to a familiar security terrain comes with immense public expectation. His experience as a former military chief has raised hopes that he can steer a fundamental reset of Nigeria's security trajectory. The Minister acknowledged the overwhelming goodwill from Nigerians, vowing to repay their confidence with decisive action.
The combined statements from the new Defence Minister and a respected moral voice like Bishop Kukah underscore a unified and urgent demand for progress. They highlight a critical moment where coordinated military strategy, inter-agency cooperation, and national mobilisation are being presented as the pathway to ending the pervasive threats of terrorism, banditry, and violent crime across Nigeria.
