Rismadarvoice – 3rd Dec. 2025
The Senate on Wednesday confirmed the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa (rtd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, following a thorough screening session that examined his military credentials and strategic views on national security.
General Musa, who appeared before the lawmakers earlier in the day, pledged to bring renewed commitment, collaboration and professionalism to the defence sector. He stressed that tackling insecurity requires a collective national effort, not just the military.
“I believe that the challenges we are facing is a Nigerian challenge, not only for the armed forces or security forces, but for everyone working together,” he said.
“I want to assure you, we will win working together as a team. Even when I was CDS, I tried to harmonise all the teams and service chiefs.”
The retired defence chief highlighted existing gaps and constitutional constraints affecting military operations and promised to work with relevant authorities to close those gaps.
General Musa emphasized the importance of establishing a comprehensive and centralized national database to support security operations and intelligence gathering.
He also called for stronger roles for local governments, sub-national bodies and the judiciary in addressing insecurity.
He firmly opposed negotiations or ransom payments to terrorists, bandits and kidnappers.
“There should be no negotiation with criminals. If you negotiate with them, they will never abide by it. They use the money to buy more arms,” he warned.
Responding to questions on allegations of religious-targeted killings, Musa said terrorism affects all Nigerians, regardless of faith or ethnicity.
“We are all victims; everybody is being killed,” he said. “We must stop the killings. Nigerians should not be killed. We must unite. These are evil people who are on drugs. They kill everyone; they don’t know who is who.”
He added that future recruitment into the armed forces would be thorough and strictly based on merit to ensure enhanced operational effectiveness.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the former defence chief for what he described as an exceptional screening performance.
“I have not seen any nominee who has answered all questions since 1999,” Akpabio remarked. “We want to urge you to visit the defence industries as soon as you take over.”
Following the screening, the Senate unanimously approved Musa’s nomination through a voice vote.
With his confirmation, General Musa is expected to lead ongoing efforts to strengthen military capabilities, boost inter-agency cooperation, and advance the Federal Government’s security agenda.
