Journalists Hail Tinubu’s Choice Of Musa As Defence Minister

Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, as the new minister of defence, describing the choice as “well-deserved, visionary, and nationally unifying.”

Addressing a press conference, in Kaduna yesterday, the forum commended the president for recognizing what it called General Musa’s “distinguished military career, exceptional leadership qualities, and unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s peace and security.”

The text of the briefing jointly signed by the chairman and secretary Ango Bally and Lilian Silas respectively equally lauded General Musa for his “strategic brilliance and patriotism,” which the group said has continued to earn him national and international accolades.

The SKJF also praised the Senate for what it described as a “swift and highly professional screening process,” noting that the level of bipartisan backing General Musa received reflected a broad national consensus on his suitability for the role.

The Forum further acknowledged the role of Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, whom it credited with championing inclusive governance and supporting Musa’s nomination. It highlighted several developmental strides under his administration, including the establishment of the University of Applied Sciences, Kachia; the Federal Medical Centre, Kafanchan; and the completion of long-abandoned infrastructural projects.

The group however criticised the administration of former Governor Nasir Ahmed El-Rufai, accusing it of sidelining Southern Kaduna in government appointments, including the ministerial slot historically shared fairly across the state.

The SKJF recalled its September 2023 appeal to President Tinubu to allocate the Kaduna ministerial position to Southern Kaduna after the Senate rejected El-Rufai’s earlier nomination. It praised the president for “listening to the yearnings of the people” and for demonstrating a commitment to inclusive politics.” According to the Forum, the gesture has restored a sense of equity and strengthened national cohesion.

Describing General Musa’s appointment as a “moment of pride for Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, and Nigeria,” the Forum expressed confidence that he would bring competence, capacity, courage, capability, and character to bear in addressing the country’s security challenges.

Reaffirming its dedication to credible journalism and nation-building, the Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote unity, fairness, and shared prosperity.