The Senate has confirmed General Christopher Musa (rtd.), the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.
Musa’s confirmation followed a thorough screening during Wednesday’s plenary, where senators examined his military career and questioned him on national security issues.
In his remarks, the former defence chief pledged total dedication to strengthening the country’s security architecture.
“I believe the challenges we are facing are Nigerian challenges, not just for the armed forces or security agencies, but for everyone working together,” he said.
“I want to assure you that we will win if we work as a team. Even as CDS, I tried to harmonise all the teams and service chiefs. There are gaps and constitutional lacuna affecting operations, and we will work to address them.”
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Musa emphasised the urgent need for a unified national database to support intelligence gathering and security operations. He also called for more proactive engagement from local governments, state authorities, and the judiciary in tackling insecurity.
The minister-designate reiterated his strong stance against ransom payments to kidnappers, terrorists, and bandits.
“There should be no negotiation with criminals. They will never abide by it, and the money only helps them acquire more arms,” he said.
Addressing allegations of targeted killings in parts of the country, Musa maintained that terrorism affects all Nigerians regardless of religion or ethnicity.
“We are all victims; everybody is being killed,” he said. “We must stop the killings and unite as a nation. These are evil people on drugs, and they kill indiscriminately.”
He also promised that future recruitment into the armed forces would be more rigorous and transparent.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Musa for his composure and detailed responses to all questions posed by lawmakers.
“I have not seen any nominee who has answered all questions since 1999,” Akpabio said. “We urge you to visit the defence industries immediately after assuming office.”
Following the screening, Akpabio put the nomination to a voice vote, and the Senate unanimously approved Musa as the new Minister of Defence.