The Senate has approved the appointment of former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as Minister of Defence following a lengthy five-hour screening on Wednesday.
General Musa’s confirmation came barely 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu nominated him to replace Mohammed Badaru, who resigned on health grounds. His appearance before lawmakers took place at a time when Nigeria is grappling with rising insecurity and repeated mass abductions, especially in schools.
Musa Vows to Investigate Kebbi School Abduction
One of the most recent incidents involved the kidnapping of 25 students in Maga, Kebbi State. Reports claimed troops withdrew shortly before the attackers struck, a development the new defence minister said would be thoroughly investigated.
“We are going to go after them fully,” he told senators, promising that the military, alongside other security agencies and MDAs, would intensify operations nationwide. He insisted the armed forces “are not known for cowardice” and pledged strict oversight of all deployments.
Minister Rejects Ransom Payments, Calls for Technology-Driven Security
While acknowledging that kidnapping for ransom has evolved into a lucrative criminal industry with Nigerians reportedly paying N2.23 trillion between May 2023 and April 2024. General Musa warned that ransom payments must stop.
He argued that criminals use the money to rearm and regroup, adding that technology and a national electronic database are essential tools for tracking illegal transactions and curbing insecurity.
No Negotiation With Terrorists, Senate Insists
General Musa ruled out negotiating with criminals, saying such engagements “compromise security” and offer terrorists time to reinforce. His position drew strong support from Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who said the legislature would not endorse any talks or rehabilitation programmes for terrorists.
According to Akpabio, deradicalisation efforts often fail and end up demoralising communities that reject returning offenders. He urged the new minister to prioritise stronger military action and push for faster prosecution of criminals.
Senate Pledges Support for New Defence Minister
Akpabio assured Musa of the Senate’s backing as he takes up the critical role, saying national security requires full cooperation between the executive and the legislature.
General Musa’s confirmation completes a swift transition following Badaru’s resignation. President Tinubu had, on Tuesday, requested speedy approval of the retired general, who served as Chief of Defence Staff from June 2023 to October 2025.
