Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has stepped down from his position with immediate effect, citing health reasons. In a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Badaru explained that his resignation was necessary to allow him focus on his health and recovery. The presidency confirmed receipt of the letter on Monday. According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu has accepted Badaru’s resignation and expressed gratitude for the former minister’s service to the country. He commended Badaru’s contributions to national security efforts during his time in office.
Badaru, a former governor of Jigawa State, was appointed Minister of Defence in August 2023 and played a key role in several security initiatives aimed at tackling Nigeria’s persistent challenges of terrorism, banditry, and insurgency. The presidency is yet to announce an acting minister or a substantive replacement, but sources within the government indicate that an official update may be issued in the coming days.
Factsphere will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as they unfold.
