Tinubu hails senate for speedy confirmation of ex-CDS Musa

President Bola Tinubu has applauded the Senate for swiftly confirming General Christopher Musa (rtd) as the new Minister of Defence, barely 24 hours after his nomination.

The former Chief of Defence Staff was screened for about five hours on Wednesday before lawmakers unanimously approved his appointment.

In a statement posted on his official X handle, Tinubu said General Musa’s emergence comes at a critical moment for the country, praising senators for acting promptly.

He wrote: “Two days ago, I transmitted the name of General Christopher G. Musa, our immediate past Chief of Defence Staff and a fine gentleman, to the Nigerian Senate for confirmation as the Federal Minister of Defence. I want to commend the Nigerian Senate for its expedited confirmation of General Musa yesterday. His appointment comes at a critical juncture in our lives as a Nation. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Tinubu nominated Musa to replace Mohammed Badaru, who resigned due to ill health. The President urged the Senate to speedily confirm the ex-CDS, who left office less than two months ago.

Musa’s appointment comes amid rising insecurity nationwide, with mass school abductions once again becoming frequent. One of the most alarming recent incidents was the kidnapping of 25 students in Maga, Kebbi State, shortly after security troops reportedly withdrew from the area.

During his screening, Musa vowed to investigate the alleged withdrawal of troops before the attack, insisting the military “is not known for cowardice.”

He said: “We are going to go after them fully, working together with all the security agencies and MDAs. We are going to investigate fully. The Armed Forces have a way, and from the defence, we are going to make sure that we continue with the oversight over their activities.”