Newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has pledged that the Federal Government’s renewed security strategies will soon deliver visible results across Nigeria.
Musa gave the assurance on Thursday after President Bola Tinubu formally swore him in at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Speaking to journalists, he said his immediate priority is to reposition the defence architecture and strengthen cooperation among all security formations.
“My immediate priority is to make sure that defence takes its place fully in the country. The synergy between the armed forces, between the armed forces and other security agencies, and all Nigerians being carried along, as we have always said, security is everybody’s responsibility,” Musa stated.
He emphasised that improved collaboration would accelerate progress in tackling insecurity. “Within the shortest possible time, Nigerians will see results,” he said, adding that he was committed to working “whatever it takes” to ensure the country is secured.
Responding to questions on Tinubu’s directive, Musa said the president stressed that restoring national security must be treated as urgent. “Nigerians should go back and sleep with their eyes closed; go back to their farms; schools open without being molested,” he quoted Tinubu as saying.
Musa’s swearing-in followed his Senate confirmation on Wednesday after a five-hour screening session. He was nominated to replace Mohammed Badaru, who resigned on health grounds. Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga described the appointment as central to Tinubu’s security reforms.
During his screening, Musa—who served as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) from June 2023 to October 2025—condemned the rise in kidnappings for ransom, warning that ransom payments compromise security and fuel criminal operations. He called for technology-driven intelligence to dismantle criminal networks.
Tinubu, in his letter to the Senate, expressed confidence in Musa’s ability to lead Nigeria’s defence establishment at a time of mounting security challenges.
At 57, Musa now assumes one of Nigeria’s most strategic national security positions, with expectations that his experience as CDS will help stabilise the country’s security landscape.
