Bomba Dauda
The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum (SKJF) has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) as the new Minister of Defence, describing the move as a triumph for merit, inclusiveness, and national cohesion.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing on Wednesday, the Forum said General Musa’s selection was a recognition of his illustrious military career, outstanding leadership qualities, and unwavering commitment to the peace and security of Nigeria.
The Forum noted that as a former Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa demonstrated strategic brilliance, professionalism, and patriotism, qualities that have earned him both national and international respect.
SKJF also commended the Senate for what it described as a swift and thorough screening process that culminated in Musa’s unanimous confirmation. According to the Forum, the bipartisan support for his nomination reflects widespread confidence in his capacity to provide quality leadership in the defence sector.
The Forum further applauded the Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his continued commitment to promoting inclusive development across Southern Kaduna. It credited the governor with facilitating several key projects, including the University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, the Federal Medical Centre in Kafanchan, and the completion of previously abandoned infrastructure.
According to the Forum, Governor Sani played an instrumental role in supporting Musa’s nomination and appointment—an action it described as a marked shift from the alleged marginalisation Southern Kaduna experienced during the eight-year administration of former Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The group recalled that in September 2023 it had appealed to President Tinubu to allocate the Kaduna State ministerial slot to Southern Kaduna after the Senate rejected El-Rufai’s nomination. It said the President’s eventual decision demonstrated fairness, inclusivity, and responsiveness to the concerns of marginalized communities.
“President Tinubu has restored equity and strengthened national cohesion through this gesture. The people of Southern Kaduna acknowledge this goodwill and will reciprocate at the appropriate time,” the Forum said.
Describing Musa’s appointment as a moment of pride for Southern Kaduna and the country, the Forum expressed confidence that he would bring competence, capacity, capability, courage, and character to the task of strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture.
The Southern Kaduna Journalists’ Forum reaffirmed its commitment to credible journalism and nation-building, pledging to continue advocating for unity, fairness, and shared prosperity across Kaduna State and Nigeria.
