President Bola Tinubu has sworn in General Christopher Musa (retd.), former Chief of Defence Staff, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.
Musa took the oath of office on Thursday at the State House in Abuja, a day after the Senate confirmed his appointment following a rigorous five-hour screening session.
During the screening, lawmakers questioned the retired general over recent national security lapses, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State—an action taken shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
Musa assured the Senate that he would “immediately set up a full-scale investigation” into the troop withdrawal once he assumes office.
He also pledged to probe the killing of Brigade Commander Brig.-Gen. Musa Uba in Borno State, along with other attacks targeting senior military officers.
His nomination came after the resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, who reportedly stepped down on health grounds.
With his swearing-in, Musa officially takes charge of Nigeria’s defence portfolio at a time of heightened national security challenges.
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