By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu, Wednesday, commended by a forensic expert, Prof Enape Victoria Ayishetu, for his wisdom in appointing the former Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (Retd) as the Minister of Defence to spearhead the renewed counter-terrorism fight.

The commendation was made in a statement signed by her, where she described Gen Musa’s appointment as a “new phase of recalibration in Nigeria’s national security architecture.”

According to Enape, Nigeria stands on the threshold of a renewed era with General Musa at the helm of the nation’s Defence Ministry, and anticipated a rebirth of military morale, a strengthening of inter-agency cooperation, and a more strategic, intelligence-driving response to threats across the country.

She also lauded Tinubu for taking a bold step to appoint Gen Musa, saying it is a demonstration of his strength of character that, “Nigeria will not bow to fear. Nigeria will not retreat. Nigeria will rise, stronger, safer, and more united.”

She urged Nigerians, from the creeks of the Niger Delta to the fields of the North-West to hear the message of hope: A brighter security horizon is emerging. A stronger defence posture is unfolding. A new dawn is here.

She said: “I wish to formally commend the decisive leadership of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the strategic appointment of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) as the new Minister of Defence.

“This important development follows the resignation of the former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, whose exit has opened a new phase of recalibration in Nigeria’s national security architecture.

“The President has once again demonstrated clarity of purpose, responsiveness, and an unwavering commitment to the security and territorial integrity of our nation.

Meanwhile, she expressed confidence in Gen Musa’s appointment by saying, “The appointment of General Musa, a seasoned military leader, former Chief of Defence Staff and Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, provides Nigeria with a formidable bridge between operational experience and strategic defence policy.

“General Musa’s distinguished record in counter-terrorism operations, inter-agency coordination, and human rights–based security management positions him as the right leader to steer the Ministry at a critical moment when insecurity demands new strategies, stronger synergy, and renewed national confidence.

“The resignation of Mohammed Badaru Abubakar is a testament to democratic accountability and leadership humility. His exit provides room for fresh energy, renewed direction, and innovative approaches that match the evolving security dynamics of the country.

“We are confident that this transition will translate into improved defence reforms, strengthened military welfare, enhanced international defence partnerships, and deeper cooperation among all security agencies.”

According to her, with the appointment of Gen Musa, Nigeria stands on the path of renewed hope, strengthened security vision, and a more resilient future.

She (Enape) further said that, “The appointment of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) as the new Minister of Defence is not just an administrative change, it is a statement of hope, a declaration of strength, and a reaffirmation of the President’s commitment to securing every inch of this nation.

“General Musa is a man who has walked through the fire with our brave soldiers. He has heard the cries of communities ravaged by insecurity. He has stood on the frontline of battle, guided by discipline, humility, and an unshakeable belief in the unity of this nation. His leadership is not theoretical; it is earned through sacrifice, strategy, and service.

Meanwhile, she commended the former Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar’s decision to resign, describing it as “maturity and respect for the nation’s evolving security needs.”