Why Defence Minister Abubakar Resigned

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has officially resigned from office, effective immediately.

In a letter dated December 1, sent to President Bola Tinubu, Abubakar said he was quitting on health grounds.

His resignation was disclosed in a statement issued late Monday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy.

According to a resignation letter dated December 1, the former Jigawa State governor informed President Tinubu that he was stepping down due to health-related challenges.

President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for Badaru’s service and contributions to Nigeria’s national security.

The Presidency is expected to communicate Badaru’s replacement to the Senate later this week, as the administration continues its security sector review.

Badaru Abubakar, aged 63, served as Governor of Jigawa State for two terms between 2015 and 2023 before being appointed Defence Minister on August 21, 2023 by President Tinubu.

His resignation comes amid President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with plans to elaborate on its scope in due course.