Tinubu Recalls Sacked Defence Chief, Musa, as New Defence Minister After Badaru’s Exit

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.The nomination came up after the resignation of Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down on 1 December 2025, citing health-related concerns in a letter submitted to the President. The Presidency immediately confirmed acceptance of his resignation.

Badaru had served in the position since August 2023 and coordinated several defence reforms before his abrupt exit. His resignation comes at a time when the country is facing renewed security pressure across the North-West, North-East and parts of the Middle Belt.

General Musa’s nomination is generating national attention because it marks a sharp turn for the retired officer who was removed as Chief of Defence Staff only weeks earlier.In a major military shake-up announced on 24 October 2025, President Tinubu replaced Musa alongside other service chiefs, a move widely reported in the media as his “removal” or “sacking.”

The development surprised many at the time because Musa had been one of the key figures in counter-insurgency operations and had established a reputation for frontline engagement and operational discipline.

His recall as minister, less than two months after being relieved, has now become one of the most talked-about political developments in the security sector.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio confirmed receipt of the President’s letter seeking Musa’s confirmation.The upper chamber is expected to accelerate the screening process given the ongoing national security emergency declared by the Federal Government.

At a time of increased insecurity, the nomination of Musa suggests a delibrate move toward strong military-experienced leadership. The President appears to be placing a wager on experience rather than political balance given his operational background, especially in fighting insurgency.

However, the rapid transition, from removal as CDS to nomination as minister, has also raised questions about strategic planning within the defence establishment.Security analysts say the move reflects the urgency of Nigeria’s worsening security landscape and the need for a firm, experienced hand.