The newly appointed Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa officially assumed office barely 24 hours after being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today, 5th December 2025 at the Ministry’s headquarters Ship House, Abuja.
In his remarks, the Minister assured that defence will take its place fully in the country.
SINL Nigeria Online reports that this he said will be achieved by synergy between the armed forces, other security agencies and all Nigerians being carried along as the saying goes Security is everybody’s business.
“It is that synergy we will build and work on. I assure you that within the shortest possible time Nigerians will see results”.
He emphasized the importance of securing the nation and safeguarding its territorial integrity, stating that national security cannot be achieved by individuals acting alone. “We must work together as Nigerians to make our country better,” he said.
Speaking further, Musa stressed the need for unified action and strategic coordination in defence operations, noting that the Ministry must not allow gaps between policy formulation and implementation.
According to him, “this Ministry will serve as a powerhouse of strategic direction and relentless accountability”.
“We must continue to support our troops, who sacrifice their lives day and night to ensure that Nigerians sleep peacefully,” he added.
The Minister however pledged to work closely with the Service Chiefs, expressing confidence that their cooperation will take the Armed Forces to greater heights.
Addressing the Permanent Secretary and the civil service cadre, he described them as the institutional memory and backbone of the Ministry and reiterated the importance of training, equipment procurement, and leveraging technology, emphasizing the need for collaboration with allies and partnerships with other security agencies as paramount.
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the opportunity to serve noting that he remains committed to advancing the welfare and wellbeing of personnel in the Ministry, strengthening national security, improving the welfare of the military personnel and advancing ongoing defence reforms.
Speaking earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mr Richard Pheelangwa said that the Minister’s assumption of office marks a significant moment for the Ministry and for the defence sector.
He reaffirmed that the entire management and staff of the Ministry of Defence was committed to supporting his leadership as he steers the Defence architecture of the nation. “We stand ready to work diligently under your guidance holding the highest standard of professionalism, integrity, discipline and accountability” he said.
Pheelangwa acknowledged that the appointment of the Minister is a testament to the nation’s confidence in his experience, character and capability to strengthen and reposition security and it is apt as it came at a time when the nation continues to confront complex security challenges.
According to him, the task ahead is no doubt a herculean one but the appointment of the Minister came at a time when renewed vigour, hope, optimism bonds and strengthen collaboration with security agencies and charting new course towards lasting peace.
He expressed optimism that his wealth of experience both as a seasoned civilian and military leader will advance this efforts.
In attendance at the event were Service chiefs, Chief of Defence Intelligence, Directors and staff of the Ministry amongst others.
