- Defence Minister Christopher Musa said he was undergoing a political transition and was likely to join the ruling APC formally
- He cited the opportunity and support he received under President Bola Tinubu as key reasons for his political alignment
- Musa stressed that his loyalty to the President and commitment to national security remained unchanged despite his political plans
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, retired General Christopher Musa, has indicated that he is likely to formally join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that he is currently undergoing a political transition.
General Musa disclosed during an interview on Sunday Politics, a programme aired by Channels Television, where he spoke candidly about his evolving role in Nigeria’s political landscape following his retirement from active military service.
According to the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), his decision is influenced by the support and opportunity he has received from the APC-led administration, particularly under President Bola Tinubu. Musa said the party provided him with the platform to serve first as Chief of Defence Staff and later as Minister of Defence, roles he described as critical to national stability and security.
“I’ve not transitioned yet. I’m in transition. I think I’ll become a politician, a member of the APC, definitely,” Musa said during the interview. He added that his political journey was a natural progression following decades of service in the armed forces.
The Defence Minister expressed strong loyalty to President Tinubu, emphasising that the President required total backing to deliver on his mandate. “Mr President needs all support, totally,” Musa said, stressing his readiness to support Tinubu and the ruling party in every possible way.
Musa’s comments have sparked fresh discussions about the increasing intersection between military leadership and partisan politics in Nigeria. While it is not uncommon for retired senior military officers to venture into politics, his remarks are among the clearest indications yet of his personal political alignment since assuming office as Defence Minister.
He reiterated that his commitment to national service remained firm, noting that his involvement in politics would not detract from his focus on strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture. Musa has been a central figure in the government’s response to insecurity, overseeing military operations against insurgency, banditry, and other threats across the country.
Political analysts say Musa’s potential entry into the APC could further consolidate support for the Tinubu administration within security and defence circles, especially at a time when the government is seeking to stabilise the country amid economic and security challenges.
The Defence Minister did not provide a timeline for when he would formally register as a member of the APC, but his comments suggest the move is likely in the near future. He maintained that his current focus was on ensuring continuity and effectiveness within the defence sector while navigating his transition into partisan politics.
Since his appointment, Musa has consistently defended the policies and direction of the Tinubu administration, often calling for national unity and cooperation in addressing Nigeria’s security challenges. His latest remarks appear to reinforce his alignment with the ruling party and his confidence in the President’s leadership.
As the political landscape continues to evolve ahead of future electoral cycles, Musa’s declaration signals a potential new chapter in his public service career — one that may see him move from military command to active political participation under the banner of the APC.