By Harriet Tornguvan
Newly appointed Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), has formally taken over the leadership of the Ministry of Defence, after being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Ministry’s headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
In his inaugural address, Musa assured Nigerians that the defence sector would assume its rightful place in securing the nation, emphasizing that national security requires collective responsibility and seamless collaboration among the military, security agencies and citizens.
“Security is everybody’s business,” he said. “It is that synergy we will build and strengthen. I assure you that within the shortest possible time, Nigerians will see results.”
The Minister stressed the need for unified action, strategic coordination and the elimination of gaps between policy formulation and implementation. He described the Ministry as a “powerhouse of strategic direction and relentless accountability,” adding that safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity must remain a shared national priority.
“We must continue to support our troops, who sacrifice their lives day and night to ensure Nigerians sleep peacefully,” he noted.
Musa pledged close cooperation with the Service Chiefs, expressing confidence that teamwork across the military high command would elevate the Armed Forces' operational effectiveness. He also highlighted the crucial role of the civil service cadre, acknowledging the Permanent Secretary and staff as the institutional memory and backbone of the Ministry.
He emphasized enhanced training, improved equipment procurement, and the adoption of advanced technologies, alongside strengthened partnerships with security allies and agencies.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, Musa affirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of military personnel, advancing defence reforms, and strengthening national security architecture.
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Richard Pheelangwa, described the Minister’s assumption of duty as a significant milestone for the defence sector. He assured Musa of the full support of the Ministry’s management and staff.
“We stand ready to work diligently under your guidance, upholding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline and accountability,” Pheelangwa said.
He added that the Minister’s appointment reflects the nation’s confidence in his experience, character and capacity to reposition the security landscape amid ongoing challenges.
The event was attended by Service Chiefs, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Directors, and senior staff of the Ministry.
