Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect, citing health reasons.

His resignation was formally conveyed in a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed the development on Monday, noting that the President had accepted Badaru’s decision and expressed gratitude for his service to the nation. S

Sources within the presidency indicated that Tinubu is expected to notify the Senate of a successor later this week.

Badaru, 63, served as governor of Jigawa State for two terms between 2015 and 2023 before being appointed Defence Minister on August 21, 2023.

His resignation comes at a critical moment, coinciding with President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with details of its scope expected to be announced soon.

Nigeria is currently grappling with escalating insecurity, including the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi, the attack on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, and the kidnapping of Catholic schoolchildren in Minna, Niger State.

Speculation Over Successor

Fueling speculation about Badaru’s replacement, the immediate past Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (retired), was seen at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday evening.

Dressed in traditional northern attire, Musa held a closed-door meeting with President Tinubu—his first visit to State House since being relieved of his duties in October.

Although the purpose of his visit was not disclosed, his presence has sparked speculation that he may be considered for the Defence portfolio.

Musa’s removal earlier this year followed reports of an aborted coup attempt, though the presidency did not provide official reasons at the time.

Badaru’s resignation leaves a vacuum in Nigeria’s defence leadership at a time of heightened security challenges.

The choice of his successor will be critical to shaping Tinubu’s newly declared security emergency and restoring confidence in the government’s ability to tackle terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings.