Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from his position with immediate effect, a development confirmed by the Presidency late Monday.
In a letter dated December 1, addressed to Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Badaru cited “health grounds” as the reason for his decision. A statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the resignation had been accepted and thanked Badaru for his service to the nation.
Badaru, aged 63, was appointed Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023. Before that, he served two terms as Governor of Jigawa State (2015–2023).
The resignation comes against the backdrop of a deteriorating security situation nationwide and a recent declaration of a national security emergency by President Tinubu. Many analysts view this exit as a significant shake-up at a sensitive time for national defense and stability.
Presidential aides say the name of a successor will be submitted to the Senate for confirmation later this week. Meanwhile, speculation is rife that former Chief of Defence Staff Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.) may be considered for the post.
As Nigeria grapples with rising insecurity in many regions, the change in defence leadership is already drawing public attention — with many hoping for renewed strategy and effective response to ongoing security challenges.
