Nigeria’s Defense Minister Badaru Abubakar Resigns on Health Grounds

By: Adamu Aliyu Ngulde
‎
‎Nigeria’s defense minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, resigned on Monday, citing health reasons, according to a statement from the presidency.
‎
‎In a letter dated Dec. 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Mr. Abubakar said he was stepping down “with immediate effect.” The president has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for Mr. Abubakar’s service, said Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy.
‎
‎The presidency said Mr. Tinubu is expected to notify the Senate of a nominee to replace Mr. Abubakar later this week.
‎
‎Mr. Abubakar, 63, served two terms as governor of Jigawa State between 2015 and 2023 before his appointment as defense minister in August 2023. His departure comes as Mr. Tinubu declares a national security emergency, with additional details on the initiative expected soon.
‎
‎His resignation comes amid President Tinubu’s declaration of a national security emergency, with plans to elaborate on its scope in due course.