“We Will Not Be Intimidated” — Defence Minister Gen. Musa Reassures Nigerians at Senate Confirmation

“We Will Not Be Intimidated” — Defence Minister Gen. Musa Reassures Nigerians at Senate Confirmation

The Senate has confirmed former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, following a rigorous screening session on Wednesday.

The confirmation, carried out through a voice vote, came barely 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu transmitted his nomination to the upper chamber. Musa retired from service just 40 days ago after completing his tenure as CDS.

During his screening, lawmakers questioned him extensively on national security, border safety, defence reforms, and strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

In his remarks, Gen. Musa emphasized the need for national unity and collective responsibility in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. He warned that the threats confronting the country are driven by “evil forces” that do not value human life.

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“We need the support of everyone — every Nigerian and everyone living in Nigeria — working together as a team. The enemies we are dealing with are evil forces that don’t mean this country well and have no respect for human life,” he said.

Gen. Musa stressed that insecurity must be viewed as a national problem, not one for the security agencies alone.

“The challenges we’re facing are Nigerian challenges, not just for the Armed Forces or security forces. Until we are deliberate and determined — knowing we are brothers and sisters — we cannot defeat this enemy. But these are challenges we can overcome,” he added.

The former CDS warned that instability in the Sahel region poses serious risks to Nigeria, citing the worsening security situation in Mali. He emphasized the need for strengthened border security and increased support for the security forces.

“The Sahel is heating up. We will not allow such situations to spill into Nigeria. Our borders must be secured. Our forces must be empowered and supported,” he said.

Gen. Musa expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the National Assembly for their past support during his tenure as CDS, assuring Nigerians of his renewed commitment to safeguarding the nation.

“Nigeria is great. We will not be ashamed, and nobody can intimidate us. We are one people, God’s people. Together, we will secure our dear country,” he declared.

With his confirmation, Gen. Musa is expected to lead ongoing defence reforms, strengthen inter-agency cooperation, and drive new strategies to counter terrorism, banditry, and emerging security threats.

“We Will Not Be Intimidated” — Defence Minister Gen. Musa Reassures Nigerians at Senate Confirmation