President Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in retired General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.
Musa arrived at the Presidential Villa around 3:47 p.m. and was taken to the President’s office, where he took the oath of office.
His appointment comes a day after the Senate confirmed him following an intense five-hour screening session. Lawmakers questioned him on recent security lapses, including the controversial withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17.
General Musa assured the Senate that he would launch a full-scale investigation into the troop withdrawal immediately upon assuming office. He also pledged to probe the killing of Brigade Commander Brig.-Gen. Musa Uba in Borno State, along with other attacks targeting senior military officers.
His nomination follows the resignation of former Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru, reportedly due to health issues.
Musa, a seasoned infantry officer, previously served as Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai and later as Chief of Defence Staff, coordinating joint military operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and various bandit groups until his retirement in October. His career includes extensive field command, staff roles, and experience in joint operational planning.
