The Southern Kaduna Journalists Forum (SKJF), has described the appointment of the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Musa (rtd) as a round peg in a round hole.
In a statement issued in Kaduna, the forum observed that the decision of President Bola Tinubu to appoint General Musa received overwhelming support from Nigerians who had witnessed his competence and capacity during his tenure as CDS.
The statement jointly signed by Ango Bali and Lilian Silas, chairman and secretary of SKJF, respectively, noted that “General Musa’s appointment is a well deserved recognition of his illustrious career, exceptional leadership record, and steadfast commitment to the peace, unity, and security of our dear nation”.
The forum said as the immediate past CDS, Gen. Musa “exhibited brilliance, patriotism, and professional excellence that continue to earn him national and international respect”.
The SKJF also commended the Senate for the ” swift, thorough, and highly professional screening process which culminated in Musa’s confirmation as Minister of Defence.”
According to the statement, “The Senate’s meticulous scrutiny of his credentials and defence sector vision demonstrates a broad national consensus on his capacity and integrity.
“The bipartisan support he received is a clear testament to the confidence reposed in his ability to lead at this critical time in our national security trajectory”.
The forum further acknowledged “the pivotal role of the Executive Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, whose support for the nomination and eventual appointment of Gen. Musa.
“His belief in Gen. Musa’s capacity and his sustained engagement at the highest levels of governance demonstrate an inclusive, bridge building leadership style worthy of emulation.
“This stands in positive contrast to the exclusionary tendencies witnessed under the eight year administration of former governor Nasiru El- Rufai which left Southern Kaduna marginalized in governance, development, and representation.
The SKJF expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, noting that the appointment has strengthened national cohesion and inclusive governance.
It stressed that, “The people of Southern Kaduna have taken note of this goodwill and will surely reciprocate at the appropriate time. Gen. Musa’s appointment is a pride for Southern Kaduna, Kaduna State, and Nigeria at large”.
The forum expressed confidence that the new minister will deploy his depth of experience and demonstrate what it called “the four Cs – Competence, Capacity, Capability, Courage, and Character in tackling the nation’s security challenges and reinforcing Nigeria’s defence architecture.”
Reaffirming its commitment to credible journalism and nation building, the SKJF declared that “As journalists and moulders of public opinion it shall continue to support policies that foster unity, fairness, and shared prosperity in Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole.
“We pray for God’s wisdom, protection, and guidance for the Honourable Minister as he undertakes this crucial national assignment of safeguarding our territorial integrity and advancing peace across the country”, the group said.
