Badaru Resigns as Defence Minister Over Health Concerns

Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, on Monday resigned from office, citing ill-health as the reason for his decision to step down from the federal cabinet.

His resignation was accepted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who expressed gratitude for Badaru’s service to the nation. According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the minister tendered his resignation in a letter dated December 1, 2025.

The President noted that Badaru’s exit takes immediate effect and commended him for his contributions during a period marked by heightened security challenges and ongoing reforms within the defence establishment.

He added that the process of nominating a new Defence Minister is underway and that a name would be transmitted to the Senate later this week for confirmation.

Badaru, 63, previously served as a two-term governor of Jigawa State from 2015 to 2023 before his appointment as Defence Minister on August 21, 2023.

“I appreciate his dedication and the effort he invested in strengthening our defence framework during a challenging period for our nation,” the statement quoted President Tinubu as saying.

“We wish him a full and speedy recovery and extend our gratitude for the service he rendered in safeguarding the country,” the statement added.

Badaru’s resignation comes at a time the Federal Government is rolling out nationwide security emergency measures, with President Tinubu expected to brief the country on further steps in the coming days.