President Bola Tinubu has sworn in retired General Christopher Musa as Nigeria’s new Minister of Defence.

Musa, a former Chief of Defence Staff, took the oath of office on Thursday at the State House in Abuja, following his confirmation by the Senate on Wednesday after a rigorous five-hour screening.

During the session, lawmakers questioned Musa on recent security failures, including the withdrawal of troops from Government Comprehensive Girls Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State, shortly before the abduction of schoolgirls on November 17. He pledged to launch a “full-scale investigation” into the troop withdrawal as soon as he assumes office.

Musa also promised to probe the killing of Brigade Commander Brig-Gen. Musa Uba in Borno State, along with other attacks on senior military officers.

He takes over from Mohammed Badaru, who resigned from the position reportedly for health reasons.