Senate Confirms Gen. Christopher Musa as Minister of Defence After Rigorous Screening
By Passman Akpos
The Senate on Wednesday confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence following an extensive and probing screening session at the National Assembly.
The confirmation, which came via a voice vote, followed hours of questioning as lawmakers grilled the retired military chief on national security challenges, defence reforms, and the ongoing battle against insurgency and banditry.
Musa, who retired from service just 40 days ago, was nominated on Tuesday by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His nomination was immediately transmitted to the Senate for legislative approval, according to Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga.
During the screening, senators commended Musa’s decades of military experience but pressed him on issues ranging from military welfare to the modernization of Nigeria’s defence architecture. Musa promised to prioritize transparency, troop morale, and improved coordination among military agencies.
With Wednesday’s confirmation, Musa officially steps into one of the administration’s most sensitive and demanding roles, as Nigeria continues to grapple with widespread insecurity across multiple regions.
