Retired General Christopher Gwabin Musa officially commenced his duties as Nigeria's new Minister of Defence on 5 December 2025, delivering a resolute address to the ministry's staff where he pledged to confront the nation's security challenges with fairness, firmness, and unwavering loyalty to the constitution.
A Philosophy Built on Three Pillars
General Musa, a former Chief of Defence Staff, acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead but expressed firm confidence in achieving victory. "We can win. We will win," he declared. He outlined his guiding philosophy, which will rest on three critical pillars: operational effectiveness, unified action, and strategic foresight.
He vowed to break down bureaucratic silos that often create gaps between policy and execution. "I am not here to preside. I am here to lead, to work, and to deliver alongside you," Musa stated, emphasizing that the ministry must transform into a powerhouse that provides strategic direction, enabling support, and ensures strict accountability.
Welfare as a Strategic Imperative
The new minister placed significant emphasis on the welfare of troops, framing it not as an administrative issue but as a core strategic priority. "Morale is a force multiplier," he asserted, committing to timely provision of kits, prompt payment of operational allowances, and prioritizing accommodation, medical care, and support for injured personnel and families of the fallen.
"Those on the frontlines watch how we treat their colleagues. If they feel abandoned, they cannot give their best. Anyone who risks his or her life for Nigeria deserves nothing but utmost respect," Musa said, underscoring the human element of national security.
Commitment to Joint Operations and Review
Musa announced immediate plans for a rigorous review of all theatre commands and inter-service operations to achieve seamless jointness. He promised an open-door policy for frank discussions on equipment, training, welfare, and overall strategy, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's expectation for tangible results.
He also introduced a clear system of reward and discipline, stating, "Those who excel will be rewarded, and where corrective measures are required, they will be taken." He called on every ministry staff member to proactively give their best, noting that collective effort lightens the nation's burden.
Leadership Welcomes a Familiar Face
In his welcoming remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, noted that General Musa was a familiar and accessible figure within the defence ecosystem. "We are glad to have him back, and we look forward to a more robust and coordinated approach to solving our security challenges," Gen. Oluyede said.
The CDS stressed the need for sincerity, collective effort, and sustained political will from the government to achieve meaningful results. He assured the new minister of the Armed Forces' full support in strengthening public confidence.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, described the minister's assumption of duty as a significant moment for the ministry and the entire defence sector, reaffirming the management and staff's collective commitment to supporting the new leadership.
General Musa's assumption of office marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria's ongoing battle against multifaceted security threats, with leadership now in the hands of a seasoned military professional promising a hands-on, result-oriented approach.
