The Senate has confirmed retired General Christopher Musa, a former Chief of Defence Staff, as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence after an intensive screening session that lasted more than three hours. Musa appeared before lawmakers alongside a large team of retired senior military officers, facing extensive questioning on national security, operational challenges, and structural reforms needed within the defence sector.
During the screening, senators pressed him on issues ranging from the growing sophistication of weapons used by bandit groups to the decline in intelligence gathering and the rising cases of kidnappings across the country. Musa declared that under his leadership, there would be no negotiations with armed groups and that criminal activity would be met with firm and decisive action. He also advocated for amendments to the Constitution to clarify the duties of the Defence Minister, Service Chiefs, and the Chief of Defence Staff in order to eliminate ambiguities within the military command structure.
A major focus of the session was the recent abduction of over 200 schoolchildren in Kebbi State, which occurred shortly after the withdrawal of troops from the MAGA community. Musa promised that the matter would be investigated thoroughly and that anyone responsible for operational failures would be held accountable.
The retired general emphasized the need for improved funding for defence, noting that modern security operations are extremely costly and pointing out that a single mid-range missile could cost as much as ₦150 million. He highlighted gaps within the criminal justice system, explaining that suspects are often arrested but rarely prosecuted successfully, and stressed the need for legal reforms to support faster and more effective justice delivery.
Musa presented several policy proposals aimed at strengthening national security. These included the creation of a unified national database to track offenders, increased reliance on technology for intelligence and military operations, a complete ban on illegal mining—which he described as a major financial pipeline for criminal groups—and a strict stance against ransom payments, which he said only perpetuate kidnappings.
He reaffirmed his commitment to restoring discipline within the armed forces and ensuring that military recruitment is strictly merit-based. Musa suggested that capable retired personnel could be re-engaged to support current operations and promised broad sensitization campaigns to attract more qualified individuals to the military. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with state governments and neighbouring countries, given the cross-border nature of organised crime and banditry.
Musa also noted the growing security threats emerging from the misuse of social media, calling for coordinated efforts involving civil agencies, regional authorities, and community structures. The Senate concluded by urging him to deliver meaningful and measurable results in addressing Nigeria’s persistent security challenges.
