Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has tendered his resignation, citing health-related reasons. His departure takes immediate effect.
In a resignation letter dated December 1, 2025, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the former minister explained that he was stepping down to attend to urgent health challenges. President Tinubu has accepted his resignation and expressed gratitude for Badaru’s service to the nation.
According to the Presidency, President Tinubu is expected to formally notify the Nigerian Senate about a new ministerial nominee later this week as arrangements for a replacement are underway.
Badaru Abubakar, aged 63, previously served as the Governor of Jigawa State for two terms between 2015 and 2023. He was appointed Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023, as part of President Tinubu’s cabinet.
His resignation comes at a critical time, following President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a national security emergency, a move aimed at reshaping and strengthening Nigeria’s defence and security architecture.
Further details on the scope and implementation of this emergency framework are expected from the Presidency in due course.
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, on December 1, 2025.
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Ademola Busayo 