…Tinubu accepts minister resignation on health grounds

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned from office with immediate effect, citing health challenges.

The development was confirmed on Monday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

In a letter dated December 1 and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Badaru explained that deteriorating health compelled him to step down from his duties. The President has accepted the resignation and expressed appreciation for the minister’s service to the nation.

According to sources within the presidency, the President is expected to notify the Senate of a replacement within the week.

Badaru, 63, previously served two terms as governor of Jigawa State between 2015 and 2023 before his appointment as Minister of Defence on August 21, 2023. His exit comes at a time when President Tinubu has declared a national security emergency, with further details on its implementation expected soon.

A statement issued by the Presidency formally announced the resignation, while Onanuga also publicised the development through an official post on Monday.

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

Badaru Abubakar, Defence Minister, Resigns

Nigeria’s defence minister, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has resigned his appointment, with immediate effect.

In a letter dated December 1, sent to President Bola Tinubu, Abubakar said he was quitting on… pic.twitter.com/zPuQyuM9Oa

— Bayo Onanuga, OON, CON (@aonanuga1956) December 1, 2025

Badaru’s departure marks a significant shift within the national security leadership as the country navigates a period of heightened security concerns.