In moments when nations confront the limits of their endurance, history often turns to leaders whose lives have been shaped on the frontlines of discipline, strategy and sacrifice. General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.), Nigeria’s former Chief of Defence Staff and now Minister of Defence, stands among such figures—calm in crisis, firm under pressure and unwaveringly committed to the ideal of a secure and united Nigeria.

A Soldier Forged by Training and ExperienceGeneral Musa’s pathway into the upper echelons of Nigeria’s security architecture is the result of decades of methodical preparation. A graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy, among the country’s toughest institutions, he also received specialized training in strategic warfare, counterterrorism and operational command both in Nigeria and abroad. His academic credentials, including coursework in defence management and national security strategy, complement a career of hands-on military experience.

It is this blend of intellectual grounding and practical command that enabled him to helm Operation Hadin Kai, the major counterinsurgency mission in the northeast, with a reputation for coordination, discipline and respect for humanitarian considerations.Bravery without SpectacleThose who served under him often describe his bravery not as the loud, chest-beating kind but as something quieter and more resolute. Musa was known for visiting forward operating bases that many senior officers only observed from afar. His presence—unannounced, unarmed beyond standard protocol and fully exposed to the same dangers as his troops—communicated a simple truth: leadership is accountability lived, not preached.

Even as he rose in the ranks, he maintained this ethos, showing the country that courage is measured not only on the battlefield but also in the willingness to take responsibility when decisions carry real-world consequences.Principles That Anchor LeadershipThree values have consistently defined his service: Professionalism – General Musa’s insistence on discipline, due process and respect for the chain of command helped restore confidence in joint operations during a period of fragmented security efforts; Integrity – known for his straightforward communication style, he routinely provided briefings grounded in facts rather than theatrics—an essential quality in an era of misinformation and national uncertainty and Humanity – Musa emphasized protecting civilians, collaborating with humanitarian agencies and ensuring that military operations aligned with Nigeria’s legal and ethical obligations.A Legacy Rooted in Service, Not PowerAcross his career, Musa has worked to professionalize the military, strengthen inter-agency intelligence sharing and promote welfare reforms for troops deployed in high-risk zones.

His tenure as Chief of Defence Staff demonstrated the potential of a security leadership that is steady even when the national mood is anxious. If his legacy has a central theme, it is this: service above self.Suitability at a Critical HourNigeria today confronts a complex security landscape—terrorism, banditry, oil theft, cyber threats and communal tensions converging into one of the nation’s most challenging periods. At such a time, the role of the Minister of Defence demands not only policy knowledge but also a deeply practical understanding of the terrain, the troops and the tactics that work.

General Musa brings decades of field command experience, proven record of coordinating multi-theatre operations, strong credibility within the armed forces as well as disciplined and principle-driven approach to national defence. These qualities do not promise miracles—but they offer something more realistic and arguably more important: competence, steadiness and an understanding of what it truly takes to safeguard a nation’s sovereignty.An Image of Hope in Difficult TimesNigeria’s insecurity challenges are steep, undeniably so.

But history shows that nations have overcome worse when guided by leaders capable of clear thinking and grounded action. General Christopher Musa (Rtd.) represents a generation of officers who understand the price of peace because they have fought through the cost of its absence. His career is a reminder that leadership, at its best, is not about promises—it is about presence, principle, and persistence.In a moment when the country seeks reassurance, his story rekindles a belief that Nigeria has within its own ranks the capacity, courage and competence to overcome the storms it faces.

No doubt, his appointment reflects political wisdom and thoughtful leadership decision from the Commander in Chief – it has reinforced public confidence and strengthened the nation’s resolve.

This opinion piece was written by Barrister Aminu Hussaini – Special Adviser to the Governor of Kano State – AKY on Justice/Constitutional Matters – +234 8033742424 – aminuhussaini173@gmail.com

By Musa Luka

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A northern-based organisation, the Northern Progressive and Advancement Forum, has urged the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to apprehend Nigerians alleged to be agitating for foreign intervention in the nation’s security challenges.

The call was made on Sunday in Birnin Kebbi by the group’s spokesperson, Alhaji Abubakar Yusuf, after an emergency meeting convened to address what it described as escalating “reckless political utterances.”

Yusuf warned that freedom of expression and political disagreement must not serve as a shield for “treasonable statements” capable of threatening Nigeria’s unity, peaceful coexistence, and national sovereignty.

He accused certain northern politicians—particularly from Zamfara State—of benefitting from past political appointments yet resorting to “dangerous rhetoric” due to political differences and personal grievances.

According to him, such agitation has increasingly targeted the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, with critics allegedly attempting to undermine his achievements in office.

“A highly placed politician from Zamfara State, who should be offering solutions to our lingering security challenges, is instead fuelling tension and making reckless statements,” Yusuf said.

He recalled that during Matawalle’s tenure as governor, he removed a traditional ruler who reportedly conferred a chieftaincy title on notorious bandit leader Ado Alero.

Yusuf also accused former APGA National Secretary, Abdullahi Shinkafi, of repeatedly criticising Matawalle and making allegations he described as unsubstantiated.

Condemning such remarks as harmful to national progress, the group insisted that the Defence Minister occupies his position legitimately with the President’s approval and is working in the interest of Nigerians.

“We call on the DSS and the NIS to arrest Senator Kabiru Marafa and Alhaji Abdullahi Shinkafi and to seize their international passports for actions capable of undermining national peace and security,” Yusuf stated.

The forum commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Matawalle and highlighted what it described as his contributions to counter-insurgency efforts, including the rescue of schoolgirls in Kebbi and previous rescues in Chibok, Dapchi, and Yauri.

Yusuf further praised the President, the Nigerian Armed Forces, and other security agencies for what he termed their recorded successes in combating insurgency, banditry, and other forms of criminality.

He urged northerners to unite, embrace constructive engagement, and take advantage of available opportunities to address regional challenges and promote socioeconomic development and peaceful coexistence.

Mike Abu Rata

The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has announced the postponement of its December Stakeholders Conference, earlier scheduled to take place from December 10 to 12, 2025, at Kini Country Guest Inn in Akwanga, Nasarawa State.

The Forum, which has served as the umbrella body for the peoples of the Middle Belt since its founding in 1947, said the decision became necessary due to unforeseen developments requiring attention before the event can hold.

The planned conference was expected to serve as a strategic platform for strengthening unity and shaping a coordinated regional agenda for the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt. The region, as defined by the Forum, includes the indigenous peoples of the former Northern Region who did not belong to the Sokoto or Borno Caliphates before colonial rule. These span communities across Southern Kebbi, Southern Borno, Southern Bauchi, Southern Kaduna, and the states of Gombe, Kwara, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Plateau, Taraba, Niger, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a notice signed by the Chairman of the Central Organising Committee (CPC), Barrister Dan Ejembi, and issued on Sunday on behalf of MBF President, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, the Forum expressed regret over the postponement.

“Any inconveniences caused by this unfortunate development are deeply regretted,” the statement said, assuring stakeholders that a new date would be announced soon.

The Forum reiterated its commitment to engaging leaders, communities, and partners across the Middle Belt to deepen unity, enhance stability, and advance a collective vision for the region.

The statement was signed by Luka Binniyat, Spokesman of the Middle Belt Forum.

The Nineteen Seventeen Northern Consensus Movement (NSNCM), a coalition of 598 registered associations across the 19 Northern states and Northern communities in the 17 Southern states, has declared firm support for the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to retain him in office in the interest of national security.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja, the National President of the movement, Dr. Awwal Abdullahi Aliyu, said the organization—one of the largest socio-political coalitions in the region—convened the briefing to commend recent security appointments by the President and to emphasize the importance of continuity within the defence leadership.

Dr. Aliyu applauded President Tinubu for appointing General Christopher Gwabin Musa as the new Minister of Defence, describing him as a “detribalized, highly accomplished and patriotic military leader.” He added that Musa’s experience and national outlook have inspired fresh confidence among Nigerians.

He also commended the former Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who resigned on health grounds, noting that his dedication and achievements remain appreciated.

Much of the NSNCM statement focused on defending Dr. Matawalle against what it called politically motivated campaigns seeking his removal. According to Dr. Aliyu, Matawalle has demonstrated “genuine commitment, responsiveness and visible results” both as Governor of Zamfara State and as Minister of State for Defence.

He cited key achievements, including the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State, the strengthening of multi-agency intelligence-sharing structures, and Matawalle’s advocacy for improved military funding and modernization.

Dr. Aliyu recalled Matawalle’s efforts as Governor between 2019 and 2023, during which he confronted severe banditry through a mix of community dialogue, intelligence-driven operations and enforcement. His Peace and Reconciliation Initiative, the establishment of Community Protection Guards, and coordination with security agencies reportedly contributed to reopening closed roads, reviving farming activities and reducing attacks in affected communities.

He dismissed calls for Matawalle’s removal as “political resentment” from long-standing adversaries uncomfortable with Matawalle’s loyalty to President Tinubu and contributions to the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Clarifying the constitutional role of defence ministers, Dr. Aliyu stressed that they do not command troops, as operational control rests with the service chiefs under the authority of the President. Rather, ministers provide policy direction, administrative coordination and strategic guidance. He added that the law does not require the minister to be a serving or retired military officer, emphasizing that competence and integrity are the key criteria.

Highlighting recent gains in civil-military relations, community intelligence flow and stakeholder engagement, the NSNCM argued that removing Matawalle now would disrupt emerging progress in ongoing security reforms.

“At this critical point in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, continuity is essential,” Dr. Aliyu said. “The synergy between the Minister of Defence and the Minister of State for Defence is beginning to yield results, and the nation needs leadership stability to consolidate these gains.”

He urged President Tinubu to disregard “mischief makers and politically motivated distractors” seeking to undermine Matawalle, noting that the group’s 598 affiliate associations are committed to mobilizing support for peace, unity and cooperation with security agencies nationwide.

Dr. Aliyu reaffirmed the movement’s commitment to grassroots intelligence gathering, community sensitization and national stability.

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A Magistrate Court sitting in Wuse, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has ordered the Nigeria Police and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to investigate the allegations of tax evasion, fraud, and related offences levelled against Engr. Augustine Chinedum Emelobe, Chairman of Northbridge Energy Limited.

The court order comes as the Leaders and Elders’ Council of Oba community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State renewed their demand for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to immediately prosecute Engr. Emelobe over the same allegations.

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Salami Odion

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the nomination of former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, as Nigeria’s ambassador to an unspecified international mission, describing the development as a boost to the nation’s diplomatic profile.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja and signed by its Chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group said the nomination was a recognition of Yakubu’s “distinguished record of public service” and his “vast experience in global affairs,” which it argued would be invaluable in strengthening Nigeria’s engagement on the international stage.

Sulaiman noted that the former INEC chairman had earned national and international respect during his stewardship at the electoral body, where he championed reforms aimed at improving electoral transparency and deepening democratic processes.

He dismissed concerns raised in some quarters that Yakubu’s new appointment could compromise the independence of INEC, insisting such fears were “misguided and reckless.”

According to him, the neutrality of INEC is anchored on law, institutional safeguards, and multilayered oversight mechanisms—not on the post-service career of any individual.

“INEC’s integrity is not tied to the personal trajectory of any former official,” Sulaiman said. “It is a system strengthened by reforms since 2010, monitored by political parties, civil society organisations, and the media. Democracy rests on institutions, not personalities.”

The group further highlighted Yakubu’s career under four successive presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—as evidence of his professionalism and non-partisan disposition.

It recalled that as Executive Secretary of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, Yakubu initiated reforms that continue to shape the nation’s tertiary education sector. It also pointed to innovations introduced under his leadership during the 2023 general elections, which it said enabled opposition parties to record their highest number of elective positions in the country’s political history.

The Northern Awareness Network urged Nigerians to support the nomination, adding that effective diplomacy required individuals with proven administrative competence and an understanding of Nigeria’s governance architecture.

Sulaiman stressed that rather than question Yakubu’s nomination, Nigerians should focus on strengthening national institutions and reinforcing accountability across all sectors.

“This appointment is an opportunity to present Nigeria’s democratic values to the world with credibility,” he added. “We call on Nigerians to rally behind this development and remain committed to building strong, resilient institutions.”

The statement concluded with the group expressing confidence that Professor Yakubu would bring his “wealth of experience, integrity, and calm leadership” to the diplomatic assignment once confirmed.

ENDS

Sama Daniel

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The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has dismissed concerns that the ambassadorial nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, could compromise the commission’s independence and impartiality.

In a statement issued by its Convener, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, the group described the ongoing public debate as “misguided and reckless,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law, not by the personal career choices of its officials.

Shettima noted that INEC’s independence is anchored on strong legal and institutional frameworks that prevent undue interference, adding that suggestions that Yakubu’s post-service appointment could taint the commission’s neutrality were unfounded.

“The integrity of INEC does not hinge on the actions of one individual. It is secured by robust structural safeguards and the active engagement of all stakeholders,” the statement read.

The NSCI emphasized that INEC remains the most scrutinized public institution in Nigeria, with its activities monitored by political parties, civil society organizations, and the media. According to the group, this level of oversight ensures that no single individual, including the chairman, can compromise the commission’s credibility.

Highlighting reforms since 2010, the organization said the electoral body has built a resilient system that continues to improve over time. It added that the 2023 general elections—described as historic for opposition parties—were a testament to the commission’s evolving strength and institutional capacity rather than the influence of any one official.

The group also defended Professor Yakubu’s record in public service, noting that he had served under four presidents with differing political ideologies—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without partisan controversy.

Shettima further recalled Yakubu’s achievements as head of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFUND) between 2007 and 2012, where he was credited with helping to transform Nigeria’s tertiary education landscape. His tenure at INEC, he said, had similarly been marked by technological innovation and improved transparency.

The NSCI urged stakeholders to prioritize strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions rather than amplifying fears over individual appointments, stressing that democracy thrives on strong systems, not personalities.

“We call on political parties, civil society, and the media to reject narratives that undermine INEC and to recommit to accountability, transparency, and the rule of law,” the statement added.

The group reaffirmed its support for Yakubu’s nomination and called for collective efforts to maintain the integrity of the country’s electoral framework.

ENDS

Gov. Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has intensified moves for the removal of Minister State for Defense, Mr Bello Matawalle, as prerequisite to join All Progressive Congress (APC).

It was reported that Lawal had meeting with President Bola Tinubu along with Enugu and Taraba state governors at Peninsular Hotel, Paris sometimes a go where he indicates his intention of joining All Progressive Party, APC along with two governors mentioned.

Lawal was said to be presurising on the presidency to remove Matawalle and bestow with the APC party structures and leadership in Zamfara state for long time,

With the resignation of Mohammed Badaru as Minister of Defence yesterday, Gov Dauda returns to trenches of demanding the President Tinubu to sack Matawalle immediately as condition of his joining APC.

The move he is making with support of a senior security head to facilitate damning reports against the personality of Minister Matawalle.

Based on the demands Governor Lawal will mobilised Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members into APC folk when he ensured that Matawalle was removed.

It was glaring that Gov. Lawal dared President Tinubu and his loyalists forcing a way for his political collusions into APC highlighting Matawalle as the only stempling block behind his political success.

The governor was not pleased with Matawalle’s  political dominance especially in the northwest and his ability to succeed in mission assigned to him.

It was alleged that Lawal was not comfortable with Matawalle’s accomplishments on handling banditry and kidnappings in region as well as how is mastered ways to ensure peace building initiatives.

Matawalle’s glaring success manifested when giving with presidential mandates to rescue kidnapped Maga secondary students in Kebbi state, restoring normalcy in Sokoto state and others.

Ike Ikechuche

The Northern Awareness Network (NAN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in what it described as a growing campaign of calumny against the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammad Bello Matawalle, warning that the development could undermine security and political stability in the North.

In a statement issued by its chairman, Salihu Sulaiman, the group alleged that following the recent resignation of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, certain political interests had intensified efforts to discredit Matawalle.

NAN claimed that the attacks were part of a wider political strategy purportedly aimed at weakening President Tinubu’s support base in the North ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to the organisation, intelligence it gathered suggested that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, was linked to activities allegedly intended to stir public unrest and mobilise protests against the minister. The group said such actions could heighten tensions in the already fragile security environment in the North-West.

“These machinations are clearly designed to destabilise the region and erode the President’s strong support base,” the statement read. “The President must be wary of those seeking to weaken his administration through orchestrated attacks on loyal allies like Matawalle.”

The group further drew parallels between current security concerns in Kebbi State and the 2014 abduction of the Chibok schoolgirls in Borno State, warning that any missteps in managing the situation could have far-reaching political consequences.

It argued that Minister Matawalle had demonstrated firm commitment to improving security and had earned the trust of many northern communities.

“Northern Nigeria stands united in appreciating Matawalle’s efforts. His initiatives have yielded tangible results, and attempts to tarnish his image are distractions from the real issues,” NAN stated.

The group urged President Tinubu to reaffirm his confidence in the minister, stressing that sidelining him would amount to a strategic error in the buildup to the next general election.

NAN also called for a public denouncement of what it described as “baseless attacks” against the Defence Minister, insisting that Matawalle remained a key pillar in sustaining political cohesion and public confidence in the North.

ENDS

By Salmon Alli

The Northern Elders Progressive Group has dismissed renewed calls for the resignation of the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Bello Matawalle, describing the criticisms as “mischievous, exaggerated, and politically driven.”

Addressing journalists on Monday, the Coordinator of the group, Yusuf Abubakar, said recent media attacks targeting the minister were part of a broader political manoeuvring within the country’s public space, especially as federal security operations continue to record gains nationwide.

Abubakar noted that some commentators have attempted to link persistent insecurity in parts of the North-West to alleged shortcomings within the Ministry of Defence. He argued that such claims ignore the complex nature of Nigeria’s security challenges and the significant progress recorded under the current administration.

He emphasised that since assuming office, Matawalle has been instrumental to a series of reforms aimed at revamping defence operations, modernising military capabilities, and strengthening collaboration among security agencies.

According to Abubakar, the minister’s role in enhancing joint operations among the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and intelligence services has been central to improving counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts across the country.

He cited the successful rescue of abducted school