The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Matthew Kukah, on Thursday, backed the newly sworn-in Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd.), saying that President Bola Tinubu’s administration appears set to “reposition” national security and restore calm across the country.
“It does seem very clear that the President wants to reposition issues of security, and I think the situation is in very good hands,” Kukah told State House correspondents after attending the swearing-in ceremony at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.
The cleric said he was at the Villa “wearing two caps,” as the Archbishop of Sokoto and as a representative of the Sultan of Sokoto.
He explained, “He was born in Sokoto, and I’m in Sokoto; he’s from Southern Kaduna, and I was born in Southern Kaduna,” adding that the Sultan “knows I’m here, and he brings his greetings.”
Kukah argued that the country’s challenge is clear and revolves around restoring normalcy “by any means possible.”
“We just need restoration of normalcy in this country by any means possible. And I think that this job is in very good hands,” he added.
He welcomed signals that Tinubu intends to overhaul the security architecture.
Asked about Musa’s comments during his screening that terrorists require stricter measures, Kukah noted, “We are on all fours as long as that is concerned — rain, thunder, sunshine, whatever it takes to get this mess under control.
“These guys need to be flushed out. Normalcy needs to return to our country. Laughter and joy have to come back to Nigeria within the shortest time possible; all we do is to pray for the best.”
For his part, Musa vowed rapid gains against insecurity, saying Nigerians would see results in the shortest possible time as he rebuilds synergy across the security architecture.
He also pledged to do “whatever it takes” to secure the lives of Nigerians.
“I can assure you, within the shortest possible time, Nigerians will see results,” he told journalists shortly after taking the oath of office.
The new defence minister said he would restore and strengthen synergy within the armed forces and among security agencies.
“My immediate priority is to make sure that defence takes its place fully in the country.
“The synergy between the armed forces and other security agencies is important. And [I will ensure that] all Nigerians are being carried along.
“As I have always said, security is everybody’s responsibility. It is that synergy that we need to build on and work on, and that’s what we’re going to do,” he affirmed.
The former Chief of Defence Staff noted that he was returning to a familiar terrain, pledging to channel the goodwill he has received into tangible outcomes.
“I want to use this medium to appreciate all Nigerians.
“Nigerians have shown me love, and I will guarantee them that I am going to work — whatever it takes — to ensure that Nigeria is secured,” he said.
Musa also revealed that the President gave him a clear charge to deliver security that is felt in homes, farms and schools nationwide.
He explained: “I just met Mr. President, and he reiterated his mind on the aspect that we must make sure that Nigeria is secured.
“Nigerians should go back and sleep with their eyes closed. Go back to their farms. Schools open without being molested.
“Everyone will be carried together to make sure that Nigeria continues to grow in line with the Renewed Hope Programme of Mr President.”
Musa’s remarks came barely 24 hours after his five-hour Senate screening and eventual confirmation on Wednesday.
He succeeds Mohammed Badaru, who served from August 28, 2023, until his resignation on December 1, 2025.
His appointment came barely two months after he was retired as part of a broad shake-up of the military high command on October 24, 2025.