Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has tendered his resignation from the Federal Executive Council, effective immediately. His decision was formally communicated to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a letter dated December 1, 2025, where he cited health-related concerns as the reason for stepping down.
According to a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu has accepted the minister’s resignation and expressed profound gratitude for Badaru’s service, dedication, and contributions to national security during his tenure.
Badaru Abubakar, aged 63, previously served as a two-term governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023 before his appointment as Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023. His exit comes at a critical moment when President Tinubu has declared a national security emergency, signaling upcoming strategic reforms expected to be outlined in the coming days.
The Presidency is expected to transmit the name of a successor to the Senate before the end of the week, as government efforts to strengthen national security architecture continue.