By Nkechi Eze
The newly appointed Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), on Thursday formally assumed duties at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, barely 24 hours after his swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. His arrival was marked by renewed assurances that the nation’s defence sector will “take its place fully” through strengthened synergy, strategic coordination, and unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria.
In a statement signed by the Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, Enderline Chukwu, the Minister declared that national security must be a collective effort and not the task of security agencies alone. Emphasizing collaboration between the Armed Forces, other security institutions and citizens, Musa stated that, “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 underscored the centrality of protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring that ongoing threats are addressed through a unified national security framework. According to him, the complexities facing the country require shared responsibility, firm leadership, and a coherent strategy. “We must work together as Nigerians to make our country better,” he said.
The Minister also stressed the need to strengthen the link between policy formulation and implementation within the Ministry, insisting that defence administration must embody clarity of purpose, accountability and effectiveness. He noted that the Ministry would serve as “a powerhouse of strategic direction and relentless accountability,” adding that troops on the frontlines must continue to receive unwavering support as they make sacrifices so that Nigerians can sleep peacefully.
Pledging robust cooperation with the Service Chiefs, Musa expressed confidence that collective commitment will elevate the Armed Forces to greater heights. He described the Ministry’s civil service workforce led by the Permanent Secretary as the institutional memory and backbone of defence administration. He reiterated the importance of continuous training, effective equipment procurement, technology adoption, and strong partnerships with allies and other security agencies.
He also expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the opportunity to serve, assuring that he remains dedicated to improving the welfare and wellbeing of personnel, deepening national security, enhancing the operational environment for military personnel, and consolidating ongoing defence reforms.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, welcomed the Honourable Minister and described his assumption of office as a defining moment for the Ministry and the nation’s defence sector. He affirmed that the management and staff of the Ministry are fully committed to supporting his leadership with the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, integrity and accountability. “We stand ready to work diligently under your guidance,” he said.
Pheelangwa added that the Minister’s appointment is a reflection of the nation’s confidence in his character, extensive experience, and capability to reposition the security architecture at a time when Nigeria continues to confront complex security challenges. He noted that while the task ahead is formidable, Musa’s background as both a seasoned military and civilian leader offers renewed optimism, strengthened collaboration, and a new pathway toward lasting peace.
The event was attended by Service Chiefs, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Directors, and senior staff of the Ministry, among other dignitaries.
