JUST IN: Senate Confirms Ex‑CDS Musa as Defence Minister After Five‑Hour Screening

JUST IN: Senate Confirms Ex‑CDS Musa as Defence Minister After Five‑Hour Screening

Reported By Sele Media Africa| Ihuoma Amarachi

ABUJA — The Nigerian Senate on Wednesday confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), as the new Minister of Defence after a rigorous five‑hour screening exercise. [1]

Screening & Confirmation Process –

The screening began Wednesday afternoon, moments after the Senate President read the nomination letter from Bola Ahmed Tinubu during plenary. [2] – Following the questioning and evaluation by senators, members voted to approve Musa’s nomination, paving the way for him to take over the defence portfolio. [1] – The confirmation comes shortly after the resignation of the previous Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who stepped down citing health issues. [3]

Why This Appointment Matters

– Musa’s record as a former CDS and his extensive military and security experience were highlighted during the screening as key reasons for the Senate’s approval. [4]- His confirmation arrives at a critical time, as Nigeria faces heightened security challenges including insurgency, banditry, and widespread violence — increasing pressure on the Defence Ministry for stronger leadership. [3]

What to Watch Next

– How the new Minister will restructure and strategize the country’s defence apparatus in response to multiple security threats. – Whether Musa’s leadership will herald reforms in coordination among security agencies — from intelligence to operations — to curb violence and insurgency. – The timeline for inauguration and beginning of official duties, and any immediate directives issued to tackle national security issues. This confirmation marks a significant moment for Nigeria’s defence leadership. Analysts are watching closely to see whether Musa’s tenure will bring the decisive action many citizens hope for.

Citations:

1. Punch Newspapers: punchng.com/just-in-senate-confirms-ex-cds-musa-as-defence-minister-after-five-hour-screening/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

2. Channels Television: www.channelstv.com/2025/12/03/live-senate-screens-ex-cds-musa-as-defence-minister-nominee/amp/?utm_campaign=LIVE%3ASenateScreensEx-CDSMusaAsDefenceMinisterNominee&utm_medium=push&utm_source=chatgpt.com

3. Reuters: www.reuters.com/world/africa/nigerias-president-names-general-musa-defence-minister-2025-12-02/?utm_source=chatgpt.com4. Wikipedia: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Christopher_Gwabin_Musa?utm_source=chatgpt.com

About The Author

Ihuoma Amarachi Grace

author

Ihuoma Amarachi Grace is a journalist with Sele Media Africa, committed to telling authentic African stories with depth and creativity. A Christian and a student of English and Literary Studies, she blends her love for writing with the art of spoken word to inspire and inform. Her voice adds a thoughtful and artistic dimension to Sele Media’s mission of amplifying unheard voices across the continent.

See author's posts