Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned his appointment with immediate effect, citing health concerns. His resignation was conveyed in a letter dated December 1, 2025, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
A statement from the Presidential Villa on Monday confirmed that President Tinubu has accepted the resignation and wished the former minister a full recovery and strength in the period ahead.
Badaru, 63, a former governor of Jigawa State, was appointed Defence Minister in August 2023 and had overseen several military operations and restructuring efforts within the Armed Forces. His exit, however, comes at a time Nigeria is grappling with renewed security pressures, particularly the resurgence of terrorist activities in the North-East and North-West, and rising incidents of banditry and kidnapping across several states. 
Security analysts say the timing of Badaru’s resignation raises concerns for the Tinubu administration, which has come under increasing public scrutiny over its handling of national security. Military sources disclosed that several ongoing counter-terrorism operations may undergo fresh adjustments as the presidency prepares to announce a replacement.
The Villa statement assured Nigerians that the government remains committed to defeating terrorism and restoring stability. “The President thanks Badaru for his service to the nation and will soon announce a new minister to ensure continuity in the defence sector,” the statement added.
