The Nigerian Senate has confirmed it will screen General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd) on Wednesday. This follows his nomination by President Bola Tinubu as the new Minister of Defence.
Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Majority Leader, announced the schedule on Tuesday. He emphasized that this exercise is a matter of urgent national importance. The goal is to fortify the country’s security architecture and ensure internal stability.
Background of the Nomination
General Musa’s nomination follows the recent resignation of Mohammed Badaru Abubakar. The former Minister of Defence vacated the position on Monday, citing health-related challenges.
President Tinubu moved rapidly to fill this strategic void. On Tuesday, he forwarded General Musa’s name to the Senate in a formal letter addressed to Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Senate Fast-Tracks the Process
The Senate is set to expedite the confirmation process. This aligns with Section 147 of the 1999 Constitution.
According to the Senate Majority Leader, the upper chamber has received the President’s request. They will read the communication during Wednesday’s plenary session. The screening exercise is expected to commence immediately thereafter.
Senator Bamidele highlighted the urgency of the situation.
“We cannot afford any delay, particularly at a time like this,” Bamidele stated. He noted that the government must sustain operations against banditry, terrorism, and extremism.
He further noted that national security requires seamless collaboration between the executive and legislative arms.
Profile of the Nominee
General Christopher Musa is a decorated military veteran with extensive operational experience. He is set to turn 58 on December 25.
Musa served as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until his retirement in October 2025. Prior to leading the Armed Forces, he held several key command positions:
- Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai (2021): He led counter-insurgency efforts in the North East.
- Commander, Nigerian Army Infantry Corps: He served in this capacity before his elevation to CDS.
- Chief of Defence Staff: Appointed by President Tinubu in 2023.
