Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday, while declining a call for Christopher Musa, defence minister nominee, to be allowed to “bow and go” during his screening, revealed to Nigerians that the United States President, Donald Trump, is putting pressure on the administration to put an end to terrorism in the country.
Sani Musa, senator representing Niger East, had proposed that the former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) be granted the traditional privilege of taking a bow without extensive questioning. But Akpabio rejected the suggestion, saying the seriousness of Nigeria’s security challenges requires a full interrogation of the nominee.
“Even Nigerians will love to ask him questions at a time like this. If we come here and do politics — politics of bow and go — this is not the period,” Akpabio said.
“Even Donald Trump is on our neck. We have not yet asked him what his response will be to Donald Trump, the president of America.”
The Senate President stressed that Musa’s nomination carries high expectations, given his background and the worsening nationwide insecurity.
“He is not just anybody; he is the Chief of Defence Staff and a nominee for Minister of Defence. And you stand up and say he should take a bow and go when there are so many questions on the minds of Nigerians — with over 200 Nigerian children still in the bush kidnapped and being tortured.”
Akpabio added that many Nigerians believe Musa’s appointment signals the possibility of stronger action against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
“Give the man an opportunity to give Nigerians hope,” he said.
After more than three hours of questioning, the Senate confirmed Musa as Minister of Defence.
In a recent comment that has drawn attention in Abuja, U.S. President Donald Trump said Nigeria must “act with urgency” to end terrorist attacks and protect civilians, warning that the U.S. is monitoring developments closely. He added that Washington expects “clear, measurable progress” in the fight against insurgent and extremist groups operating in the region.
