Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar has resigned from his position, citing health challenges that limit his ability to continue serving effectively.
The resignation was confirmed on Monday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said that the minister had submitted a formal letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, requesting to step down due to his health condition.
In the resignation letter, Badaru reportedly explained that his declining health made it increasingly difficult to perform the demanding responsibilities of the Defence Ministry, which oversees the country’s armed forces and plays a critical role in national security.
Abubakar,,63 was appointed minister in August 2023. He previously served as the governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023.
He was a one-time chairman of the Nigerian Presidential committee on fertilizer distribution to farmers, and also a former chairman of a presidential committee on non-oil revenue. He is the founder of Talamiz Group.
Abubakar is a graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria where he obtained a B.Sc Accounting degree. While studying at the university, he became involved in community activism, sport and business. He is also an alumnus of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru.
After his graduation, Badaru established his business, the Talamiz Group, a conglomerate with diverse interest in automobiles, manufacturing, agriculture and animal husbandry, as well as commodity distribution.
President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for Badaru’s contributions during his tenure. The president acknowledged the minister’s dedication, highlighting his efforts to strengthen the country’s defence capabilities and maintain security across Nigeria.
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The resignation of a senior cabinet member comes amid ongoing security challenges in several regions of Nigeria, including counter-terrorism operations, border security, and defence sector reforms. Observers note that the leadership transition in the Defence Ministry will be closely watched, as it may affect ongoing military strategies and collaborations with regional and international partners.
Onanuga stated that the government is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continuity in the ministry’s operations. A new appointment is expected soon, and the presidency has assured Nigerians that national security will remain a top priority.
Badaru’s tenure as Defence Minister saw several initiatives aimed at improving operational readiness, modernizing equipment, and enhancing the welfare of service personnel. His resignation, though health-related, marks the end of a period of active service in Nigeria’s security sector.
Crediblenewsng.com
