Nigeria’s Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar Resigns Amid National Security Emergency

Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office with immediate effect, marking a significant development at a time when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a National Security Emergency.

Badaru tendered his resignation in a letter dated December 1, citing health reasons. The 63-year-old former two-term Governor of Jigawa State (2015–2023) had served as defence minister since August 21, 2023.

In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu accepted the resignation and expressed gratitude for Badaru’s service to the Nation, particularly during a period of complex security challenges.

The President is expected to forward the name of a new defence Minister to the Senate later this week, a move that will be closely watched as Nigeria anticipates the rollout of Tinubu’s security emergency framework. The administration has hinted at a comprehensive overhaul of defence operations, with more details expected in the coming days.

Badaru’s departure introduces a new dimension to the Government’s security restructuring, with analysts noting the importance of swift leadership transition within the defence sector.

No further details were provided regarding the health issues that informed his decision.