By Muhammed Abubakar, Reporting
The Senate has confirmed the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, retired General Christopher Musa, as Minister of Defence.
Musa’s confirmation on Wednesday followed hours of rigorous screening in a Committee of the Whole session, during which lawmakers quizzed him extensively on national security challenges.
Reflecting on his 39 years of military service prior to retirement, Musa described his tenure as Chief of Defence Staff as “a defining moment”.
“I pledge to give my very best to ensure Nigeria remains secure. We need the support of all Nigerians. Terrorists are the enemies of this nation; they have no respect for human life,” he said.
“We must first love one another. I assure you, we will work as united as we did when I served as CDS. We cannot win this battle unless we remain determined. The Sahel is heating up; our borders must be secured, and security agencies supported. Nigeria is great, and we shall never be ashamed — we are one people.”
On the frequent abduction of students, Musa described the situation as “highly unfortunate”, noting that despite the rollout of the Safe School Initiative last year, many learning environments remain dangerously exposed.
“We need to examine the issue critically and ensure a holistic approach. Crime is localised and security agencies cannot be everywhere. Communities must be resilient and able to act as first responders,” he said.
He lamented the absence of basic protection infrastructure in many schools, particularly perimeter fencing, and highlighted communication lapses as a major setback in kidnapping prevention.
“A whole-of-society approach is required — technology, the armed forces, the police, other security agencies and local communities working together,” he added.
Responding to a question from former Senate President Ahmad Lawan, Musa vowed to ensure transparency in the management of defence expenditure.
“Whatever funds are allocated must be properly utilised. We must ensure that all procurements truly support our armed forces in carrying out their duties,” he assured, noting that improved accountability would significantly boost operational capacity.
Musa also cautioned against unrealistic expectations placed solely on the military.
“One mistake we make is assuming the armed forces can solve everything. The military contribution is only about 20 to 25 per cent. Effective policies and strong support from ministries, departments and agencies are essential.”
Speaking on the death of the late Brigadier Musa Uba, he said: “It was very unfortunate that he was captured. We will not allow terrorists to have their way. Indolence or cowardice will not be tolerated. Anyone found culpable will face consequences.”
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau commended Musa for his efforts while in service, noting that his leadership helped reduce the frequency of attacks.
Lawan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Defence, said Musa’s nomination had received widespread approval, praising his sense of duty and professionalism. He stressed that increased funding for the armed forces must be prioritised in the 2026 Budget.
Presiding over the confirmation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged the new minister to move swiftly into action to support the government’s fight against insecurity. He rejected any calls for negotiations with terrorists.
“Even when I was a state governor, I never negotiated with terrorists,” Akpabio said. “We made the environment so hot that each time a kidnapper was apprehended, he would beg for forgiveness.”
He called for a review of kinetic and non-kinetic security strategies to strengthen the nation’s response to threats.
What's your reaction?
