Defence Minister Resigns on Health Grounds

Abuja, Nigeria — December 2, 2025

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office with immediate effect, citing health challenges.
In a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the 63-year-old minister conveyed his decision to step down, stating that the move was necessary to allow him to focus on his health.

President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and expressed gratitude to Abubakar for his service to the nation. The president is expected to notify the Senate of Badaru’s successor later this week.

Badaru Abubakar previously served two terms as governor of Jigawa State between 2015 and 2023 before being appointed Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023. His departure comes at a critical period, following President Tinubu’s recent declaration of a national security emergency. The presidency has indicated that further details on the scope of the emergency measures will be communicated in due course.

Abubakar’s exit marks a significant shift within the country’s security leadership as Nigeria navigates heightened security challenges and prepares for new strategic directives.