The Nigerian Senate is set to screen General Christopher Gwabin Musa, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, following his nomination by President Bola Tinubu as the new Minister of Defence.

The announcement was made by Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who emphasized that the screening is a crucial step in bolstering the nation’s security amid escalating threats from bandits, extremists, and terrorists.

Musa’s nomination follows the resignation of former Defence Minister Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, who stepped down citing health concerns. President Tinubu formally transmitted Musa’s nomination to Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Tuesday.

Bamidele stated that the request “will be read on the floor of the Senate on Wednesday and will proceed immediately to the screening of the nominee in accordance with Section 147 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).” He stressed the urgency of the process, saying, “We cannot delay such a request, especially at this crucial time in our nation’s history. The federal government must sustain its campaigns against bandits, extremists, terrorists, and other threats to national security.”

He further highlighted the importance of synergy between the Presidency and National Assembly, noting that the screening “demonstrates a united front in the national interest during the state of emergency on security declared by the President.”

General Musa, who will turn 58 on December 25, served as Chief of Defence Staff from 2023 until October 2025. His confirmation is expected to play a key role in strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security strategy.