By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – A former Commander, Joint Task Force, JTF, Operation PULO SHIELD, Major General Emmanuel Jebe Atewe (Retd), weekend, commended President Bola Tinubu over the appointment of General Christopher Musa, (Retd) the Minister of Defence, describing it as “a strategic, patriotic, and highly deserving decision by the President.”

Gen Atewe in a statement signed by him, said that General Musa’s depth of operational experience and leadership pedigree have positioned him as the right man to steer Nigeria’s defence architecture during a critical period.

He also acknowledged and lauded Tinubu’s decision and action, saying it is “one of the most consequential security appointments in recent years”, while he expressed optimism and confidence that Gen Musa has all it takes to bring his trademark – discipline, strategic clarity, and decisive leadership to bear in confronting Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.

He said: “General Musa is an outstanding officer whose capacity has been tested across theatres of operation.

“His appointment reflects the President’s commitment to strengthening national security with men of proven integrity, competence, and courage.

“I congratulate him wholeheartedly and wish him a tenure marked by stability, innovation, and lasting peace.

“This choice demonstrates the President’s deep understanding of the security landscape and his readiness to consolidate gains made so far. The nation will benefit immensely from General Musa’s vision and experience.

Meanwhile, Major General Emmanuel Jebe Atewe (Retd) was the Commander, Guards Brigade, Abuja, and he served also as the Commander, Joint Task Force (JTF) Operation PULO SHIELD, where he led one of Nigeria’s most successful crackdowns on oil theft and illegal bunkering.

He was the Deputy Sector Commander, UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), he also served as Commanding Officer, 4 Guards Battalion, and Chief Instructor, Nigerian Defence Academy.