Musa assumes office as Defence Minister, unveils strategic plans, vows tough reforms

Christopher Musa, former Chief of Defence Staff on Friday assumed office as Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, pledging a new era of discipline, accountability, improved welfare and coordinated security operations aimed at restoring peace across the country.

The symbolic ceremony, held at the Ministry of Defence headquarters in Abuja, marked a “homecoming” for the former Chief of Defence Staff, who only weeks ago retired from active service in uniform.

In his maiden address, Musa said he accepted his new role with “profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility,” noting that the collective goodwill shown by Nigerians must translate into concrete improvements in national security.

“Barely six weeks ago, I was still in uniform. Today, by the confidence of the President, I stand before you as Minister. We must take ownership of our national challenges. No one else will solve them for us”, he said.

Read also: Christopher Musa: Left as Chief of Defence Staff, returning as minister

The minister outlined a three-pillar framework for his leadership to include operational effectiveness, unified action, and strategic foresight.

He emphasised that the ministry would serve as the strategic nerve centre for defence planning, intelligence coordination, joint operations and accountability.

He announced plans for an immediate review of all theatre commands, inter-service operations, equipment needs, welfare issues and training gaps, stressing that his office would remain accessible for honest conversations.

Musa placed special emphasis on troops’ welfare, arguing that morale on the frontlines is a “force multiplier.”

“Our personnel must receive their kits on time. Operational allowances must be paid promptly. Accommodation, medical care and support for injured personnel and families of the fallen must be priorities,” he warned.

He also pledged zero tolerance for corruption, indiscipline and negligence, saying, “Our loyalty is to Nigeria and the Nigerian people. The President expects results. We must deliver.”

The minister said technology, intelligence and data-driven decision-making would define Nigeria’s new defence posture.

“The shedding of innocent blood must end. Our children must return to school, and farmers must return to their farms. We will pursue solutions that combine kinetic and non-kinetic approaches”, he said.

Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, also welcomed Musa’s return, describing him as an accessible and committed leader.

“We are glad to have him back. To achieve meaningful results, we must be sincere and collective in our approach. With the Minister’s leadership and the government’s political will, I am confident that Nigeria will be better”, he said.

Oluyede assured that the Armed Forces would fully support the minister to strengthen public trust in the military.

Musa acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Nigeria’s resilience and capacity to overcome insecurity.

“The task ahead is enormous but achievable. We can win. We will win. I am not here to preside. I am here to lead, to work, and to deliver alongside you”, he said.

He reaffirmed his commitment to fairness, firmness and constitutional responsibility, adding that Tinubu was “working tirelessly” to enable the defence sector to succeed.

Richard Pheelangwa, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, said Musa’s appointment by President Bola Tinubu underscored national confidence in his “experience, character and capability to strengthen and reposition Nigeria’s security architecture.”

He described the ministry, established 67 years ago and staffed by about 7,666 civilian and military personnel as a key policy engine for safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty, supporting global peacekeeping missions, and ensuring the effective functioning of the Armed Forces.

“Your appointment comes at a time when our nation continues to confront complex security challenges. It is also a time when renewed reforms, strengthened inter-agency collaboration and fresh strategic direction are urgently required”, he said.

Pheelangwa assured the minister of the unwavering loyalty and support of management and staff, adding that Musa’s familiarity with the system would accelerate reforms.

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