The Arewa Youth Alliance for Progress and Development (AYAPAD) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence, describing the decision as a welcome and strategic move to address the country’s growing security challenges.
This is contained in a statement signed on Wednesday by its national president, James Ishaku, and its national secretary, Mohammed Garba, and made available to journalists in Kaduna.
The group praised General Musa’s record of service and experience and expressed optimism that his appointment could usher in significant reforms within the defense sector.
AYAPAD noted that Nigerians, especially those in the northern region, have endured years of escalating terrorism, banditry and violent attacks and therefore need a leader with the competence and clarity that General Musa brings.
However, the group expressed serious concern over Bello Matawalle’s continued role as Minister of State for Defence.
According to the statement, retaining Matawalle could hinder the fresh start that the Ministry of Defense urgently needs.
The group argued that insecurity worsened under former Defense Minister Abubakar Badaru and State Minister Matawalle, citing persistent kidnappings, unsafe roads and communal attacks.
AYAPAD highlighted the recent kidnapping of more than 250 students and teachers from St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, as well as numerous farmers still held by kidnappers across the North, as evidence of leadership failures during Matawalle’s tenure.
The organization stated that pairing General Musa with a minister associated with such deficiencies “does not make sense” and could create internal conflicts and slow down essential reforms.
AYAPAD called for the immediate dismissal or voluntary resignation of Matawalle, describing his continued presence as an obstacle to progress and a “deep insult” to victims of insecurity.
The group also warned that if the situation persists, it is prepared to peacefully mobilize northern youths for a massive protest in Abuja to demand a cohesive and competent defense leadership team.
AYAPAD urged President Tinubu to give General Musa a clean slate by ensuring that he is supported by a fully aligned and effective ministerial team, stressing that the current security climate leaves no room for political compromise.
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