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…As Service Chiefs, Permanent Secretary, Directors and Staff Receive New Minister at Ship House, Abuja

Barely 24 hours after being sworn in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the newly appointed Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), on Friday, December 5, 2025, officially assumed office at the Ministry of Defence headquarters, Ship House, Abuja, with a firm assurance that the defence sector would “take its place fully” in the affairs of the country.

In his maiden remarks, the Honourable Minister emphasized that restoring and strengthening national security would require strong synergy between the Armed Forces, other security agencies and the Nigerian people, noting that security is a collective responsibility. He pledged that his administration would focus on building this synergy as a top priority, stressing that Nigerians would begin to see positive results within the shortest possible time.

“It is that synergy we will build and work on. I assure you that within the shortest possible time Nigerians will see results,” Musa said.

He underscored that safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and internal stability cannot be achieved by any single institution or individual, but through unity, coordination and shared commitment among all stakeholders.

Speaking further, the Minister called for unified action and strategic coordination in defence operations, warning against gaps between policy formulation and implementation. He described the Ministry of Defence as a critical powerhouse of strategic direction and accountability, adding that responsiveness, transparency and discipline would define his stewardship.

“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 stated.

Musa pledged to work closely with the Service Chiefs and expressed confidence that their collective cooperation would drive the Armed Forces to greater heights. He also paid special tribute to the Permanent Secretary and the civil service workforce, referring to them as the institutional memory and backbone of the Ministry.

He highlighted the urgent need to prioritize training, modern equipment procurement and the strategic deployment of technology, while emphasizing deeper collaboration with Nigeria’s allies and enhanced partnerships with other security agencies.

The Minister expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the confidence reposed in him, reaffirming his commitment to strengthening national security, advancing defence reforms, and improving the welfare and wellbeing of military personnel.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, welcomed the Minister and described his assumption of office as a significant moment for both the Ministry and the nation’s defence sector. He assured the Minister of the total support and loyalty of the Ministry’s management and staff.

“We stand ready to work diligently under your guidance, holding the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline and accountability,” Pheelangwa said.

He added that Musa’s appointment reflects Nigeria’s confidence in his experience, character and proven capacity to reposition the country’s defence architecture at a time when the nation continues to confront complex and evolving security challenges.

According to him, although the task ahead is undoubtedly herculean, the Minister’s wealth of experience as both a seasoned civilian and military leader inspires renewed vigour, optimism and strengthened collaboration towards achieving lasting peace and stability.

The formal assume-of-office ceremony was witnessed by the Service Chiefs, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Directors and staff of the Ministry of Defence, among other top officials.

StreetReporters.ng

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