In a significant move to reshape Nigeria's security leadership, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has put forward a key nomination for the nation's top defence portfolio.
New Leadership for the Defence Ministry
President Tinubu has nominated the immediate-past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), to take over as the new Minister of Defence. This decision was formally communicated to the Senate on Tuesday, December 1, 2025.
The nomination comes swiftly on the heels of the resignation of the erstwhile minister, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru. Badaru stepped down from his role on Monday, November 1, 2025, citing health reasons as the grounds for his departure.
The Presidential Nomination and Confidence
A statement issued by the Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, detailed the process. President Tinubu conveyed the nomination of General Musa in a formal letter addressed to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.
In the correspondence, President Tinubu expressed strong confidence in the retired General's capacity to lead the Ministry of Defence effectively. The President highlighted his belief that Musa's experience would be instrumental in further strengthening Nigeria's security architecture during a critical period.
Profile of the Nominee: A Distinguished Soldier
General Christopher Musa brings a wealth of military experience to the role. He served as the Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025, providing strategic leadership across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The nominee, who will celebrate his 58th birthday on December 25, is a highly decorated officer. Among his notable honours is the prestigious Colin Powell Award for Soldiering, which he received in 2012. This award underscores a career marked by exemplary service and professionalism.
His nomination now awaits confirmation by the Nigerian Senate, a step that is widely anticipated given his distinguished record and the urgent need for stable leadership in the defence sector.
