By Queen Madaki, The Bureau News
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office with immediate effect, citing health reasons. His decision marks a significant development within President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet at a time the country is grappling with heightened security concerns.
The resignation was formally communicated to the President through a letter dated December 1. According to the statement released by the Presidency, President Tinubu has accepted the decision and expressed appreciation for the minister’s service to the nation.
STATE HOUSE PRESS RELEASE
Badaru Abubakar, Defence Minister, Resigns
Nigeria’s defence minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned his appointment, with immediate effect.
In a letter dated December 1, sent to President Bola Tinubu, Abubakar said he was quitting on health grounds.
President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and thanked Abubakar for his services to the nation.
President Tinubu will likely inform the Senate of Badaru’s successor later this week.
Badaru Abubakar, 63, was a two-term governor of Jigawa state from 2015 to 2023. He was appointed as a 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.
-Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy)
December 1, 2025
Badaru’s exit adds a new dimension to the ongoing national security emergency recently declared by President Tinubu. Analysts say the development may influence the administration’s planned security restructuring, especially given the pivotal role the Defence Ministry plays in the ongoing counterterrorism and stabilization efforts.
The Presidency is expected to forward a new ministerial nominee to the Senate later this week, as consultations intensify over who will take over the critical defence portfolio.
The Bureau News will continue monitoring the situation as President Tinubu’s security reforms evolve.