Nigeria’s newly appointed Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, officially assumed office on Friday at the Ministry of Defence, Ship House, Abuja. His appointment by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday came after the resignation of former minister Muhammed Badaru and was swiftly confirmed by the Senate on Thursday.

General Musa, who served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 to 2025, is widely regarded as a firm and innovative military leader. His elevation to the ministerial role has drawn positive reactions from security analysts, civil society, and defence personnel who believe his experience will bring renewed energy to Nigeria’s security architecture.

Arriving at the ministry around 11:10 a.m., the new minister inspected the quarter guard in accordance with military tradition before meeting service chiefs and senior officials. His reception was marked by a blend of ceremony and optimism, reflecting expectations that he will strengthen coordination among the armed forces.