Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar Resign

Abubakar Mohammed Badaru, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, has officially resigned from his position, citing health reasons. His resignation, announced in a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, was confirmed by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. The president has accepted the resignation and thanked Abubakar for his service to the nation.

The 63-year-old former Jigawa State governor’s departure comes amid a surge in insecurity across the country. Recent incidents include the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, an attack on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, and the kidnapping of Catholic schoolchildren in Minna, Niger State. In the past few weeks alone, there have been at least five reported incidents targeting schools and places of worship.

Although Abubakar cited health reasons for stepping down, observers suggest his resignation may also be linked to the worsening security situation in the country. President Tinubu is expected to inform the Senate of a new appointee later this week.

The resignation follows closely on the heels of a national security emergency declaration by President Tinubu, who plans to outline the scope of the emergency in due course. Notably, Abubakar’s exit coincides with the recent visit of retired Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, to the Presidential Villa for a closed-door meeting with the president the first since his removal in October, reportedly linked to allegations of an aborted coup attempt.

The Ministry of Defence has yet to comment on the immediate steps to address the ongoing security challenges in the country.