The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has welcomed the swift nomination of former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), as the new Minister of Defence—less than 24 hours after his predecessor, Mohammed Badaru, resigned.
However, the rights group stressed that the effectiveness of the new minister will depend largely on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and willingness to grant him full operational independence.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA described Musa’s appointment as merit-based and urged him to “hit the ground running,” noting the country’s worsening security situation leaves no time to waste.
According to the group, while Musa brings extensive security and defence experience to the role, his performance will ultimately be shaped by the president, who constitutionally oversees the defence sector as Commander-in-Chief.
“The overall responsibility rests on the powerful executive office of the President. If Mr. President allows the minister to work freely and provides the needed support, success is possible. But if he restricts him, or surrounds himself with ineffective ministers, no miracle should be expected,” the statement read.
HURIWA called on the Senate to expedite Musa’s confirmation, noting that his nomination has gained widespread approval among Nigerians.
The group urged the incoming minister to immediately roll out a “quick-win security strategy” to counter terrorists and restore public confidence, warning him not to emulate the “ineffectiveness” of his predecessor.
HURIWA also challenged President Tinubu to demonstrate seriousness in combating terrorism by publicly naming and prosecuting the sponsors of terrorism in Nigeria—backed by credible evidence rather than political considerations.
“This administration is almost three years into its tenure and has yet to prosecute any terrorism financiers. Nigerians deserve to know who has been funding the bloodshed,” the group added.
President Tinubu announced Musa’s nomination in a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday. Musa, 58, served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 to October 2025 and is a recipient of the 2012 Colin Powell Award for Soldiering. His distinguished military career spans command roles in Operation Lafiya Dole, the Multinational Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, and the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps.
HURIWA concluded by urging both the President and the incoming minister to align their efforts to deliver meaningful reforms and restore security nationwide.
HURIWA: Musa’s Success as Defence Minister Depends on Tinubu’s Leadership
