By peace Udugba
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned citing health reasons, just days after President Bola Tinubu declared a national security emergency. Badaru, 63, who served as a two-term governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023, was appointed Defence Minister on August 21, 2023. President Tinubu accepted his resignation and thanked him for his service to the nation. The President will likely nominate a successor later this week.
The resignation comes amid a surge in insecurity across the country, including mass kidnappings and attacks by Islamist militants and armed gangs. Over 2,500 children have been abducted in the past decade, and recent incidents have sparked widespread outrage. In November alone, hundreds were abducted, including over 300 students and staff from a Catholic school in Niger State. Some students have escaped, but many remain captive.
President Tinubu has ordered the recruitment of 50,000 police officers and redeployment of police officers from VIP protection to frontline duties to combat insecurity. The government has also shut down 47 colleges in the north due to security concerns. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has assured that efforts are being made to secure the release of abducted students and staff.
Recent Kidnappings:
– Kebbi State: 24 schoolgirls abducted on November 17 were later released after a rescue operation.
– Niger State: Over 300 students and staff were kidnapped from a Catholic school, with around 50 students escaping and 265 still being held.
– Borno State: 12 young girls were abducted and later released by their captors.
Government Response:
– President Tinubu has declared a national security emergency and ordered sweeping reforms.
– The government has ordered the recruitment of more police officers and security personnel.
– Efforts are being made to secure the release of abducted individuals and bring perpetrators to justice.
