The Senate on Wednesday confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence after a tense five-hour screening session. Lawmakers grilled the nominee over recent security failures, particularly the withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, shortly before the November 17 abduction of schoolgirls, an incident that drew nationwide outrage.
Musa pledged to open a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal once he assumes office. He also vowed to probe the killing of the Borno brigade commander, Brigadier General Musa Uba, along with other attacks targeting military personnel.
“It is painful and unacceptable,” he said. “We will not stand by and allow terrorists develop the capacity to carry out such acts. We will go after them fully, in collaboration with all security agencies and relevant ministries and departments. We will investigate thoroughly and sustain strict oversight.”
He further pointed out critical gaps within the armed forces, calling for improved funding, stronger community engagement and better coordination across security agencies.
He also emphasised the need to protect schools through the Safe Schools Initiative and a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and banditry.
The screening session saw moments of tension in the chamber.
Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) suggested Musa be allowed to “take a bow and go,” prompting protests from lawmakers, including Senator Garba Maidoki (PDP, Kebbi South).
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, intervened, urging a thorough screening and noting that Nigerians and the international community were closely watching the process.
Musa, nominated on Tuesday by President Bola Tinubu following the resignation of Defence Minister, Badaru Mohammed, on health grounds, pledged to prioritise the protection of lives and national territory.
