Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office with immediate effect, citing health challenges that he says have made it impossible for him to continue in the role.
In a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Badaru formally announced his decision to step down. President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for his service to the nation, especially during a period of heightened security concerns.
The presidency is expected to forward the name of a replacement to the Senate later this week as government moves swiftly to fill the strategic position.
Unconfirmed sources have begun circulating reports that former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (rtd), is being considered as a potential successor. While the presidency has not made any official statement on the matter, the speculation has intensified following the minister’s abrupt exit.
Badaru, 63, served two terms as Governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023 before his appointment as Defence Minister on August 21, 2023. His sudden departure comes just as President Tinubu has declared a national security emergency, with further details on its scope expected in the coming days.
The development has sparked nationwide interest, given the sensitive timing and the critical role of the defence ministry in combating terrorism, banditry, and escalating security threats across the country.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the resignation and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening national security institutions. A formal announcement regarding Badaru’s successor is anticipated soon as the government intensifies efforts to stabilise the security landscape.
