By Thomas Danjuma Abu
Every government—whether wearing polished military boots or flowing agbada—needs one indispensable ingredient to survive: legitimacy. My Political Science lecturer didn’t whisper this truth; he announced it like a commandment: Support + Control = Legitimacy (S + C = L). Support means the people willingly accept you. Control means the state can enforce laws, maintain order, and protect its territory. When these combine, the result is legitimacy—the golden fuel that keeps government running. Lose Support, and Control takes over. Lose Control, and Support stands weak. This political equation has guided leaders from ancient times to today.
Interestingly, the appointment of General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd) as Nigeria’s Minister of Defence instantly injected legitimacy into the current administration—a legitimacy born not from propaganda, but genuine national acceptance. As an ancient philosopher said, “Leadership is not claimed; it is affirmed by the people.” In CG Musa’s case, the people didn’t just affirm—they celebrated.
His appointment achieved what few political events in recent Nigerian history have: national unity. The Senate, usually a forum of polite disagreements, sounded like a coordinated choir. Senator Adams Oshiomhole said, “Your appointment is a bold statement even to the enemies outside Nigeria. Your nomination has shut their mouths.” Senator Monguno added, “General CG Musa is a square peg in a square hole.” And Senator Ahmed Lawan captured the mood: “This is the only ministerial nomination that almost everyone is saying ‘yes’ to. We are united today because of this choice.” A moment of unity over a nominee—truly historic.
Before formalities ended, Nigerians on social media—the world’s most unpredictable parliament—had screened and endorsed him. Ibrahim Yakubu Gama joked: “We, the Social Media Screening Committee, have screened him. Take a bow and go.” Oament John Kennedy added: “Even the birds in the sky are rejoicing with the GENERAL’s speech.” Kingsley NKD Dyakas noted: “First time in Nigeria’s history a nominee is widely accepted across creed, religion, or ethnicity.” And Ayodeji Damilola humorously warned: “Expectations are high. No sleeping, sir. Nigerians cannot sleep. To sleep with two eyes closed, you must not sleep.” Nigerians have a unique way of blending humour and truth.
General CG Musa (Rtd) has become a symbol of competence, unity, trust, and renewed hope. In a season where faith in institutions is low, his emergence reminds Nigerians that merit still speaks, character still matters, and leadership can command love without intimidation. As an African proverb says, “When a good man rises, the sun pauses to acknowledge him.” Modern wisdom adds, “Competence is the only language that needs no ethnic translation.”
He embodies both ancient and modern virtues—discipline, calmness, loyalty, empathy, and strategic intelligence. Respected by soldiers, admired by civilians, and trusted by young and old, his nomination was more than an appointment; it was a national healing moment—a reminder that Nigeria recognizes excellence.
To our Honourable Minister of Defence: Nigeria trusts you deeply, and that trust carries responsibility. Sun Tzu said, “The general who wins makes many calculations before battle begins.” And a modern taxi driver added: “Oga, big man wey carry responsibility no dey close eye anyhow.” Nigerians believe in you. Their expectations are high. Hope is heavy. Faith is firm. Birds are singing, citizens are watching, enemies are trembling, and history stands ready.
Congratulations, General Christopher Musa (Rtd). Your appointment is more than political—it is a legitimacy booster, a unifying force, and a national affirmation that Nigeria still honours excellence. Go, sir—tool up and go to work. Nigeria salutes you. Posterity is watching
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