SaharaReporters can exclusively report that General Aliyu Mohammed Gusau, a former Chief of Army Staff and several times National Security Adviser, has accepted an offer by President Goodluck Jonathan to become Nigeria’s next Minister of Defence.
With this development, Gusau will fill a portfolio that has been vacant since Jonathan sacked Dr. Halliru Mohammed Bello on 22nd June, 2012.
A competent source close to General Gusau confirmed to SaharaReporters that he accepted the offer after extensive consultations with his family, associates and other interests.
The source added that the general’s name and those of other ministerial nominees will soon be forwarded to the Senate as is the normal practice, for confirmation.
The source said, “He has accepted and now ready and soon, you will hear the whole story. He has accepted to work for the interest of the country and for no any political or personal interests. This is what you should know please.”
The source refused to answer further questions, instead saying SaharaReporters should pose them to the 71 year old retired military officer from Zamfara State directly.
Gusau’s nomination puts to rest suggestions that the former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur could become the Minister of Defence, following comments by President Jonathan that he will give Tukur tough assignments.
Insiders within security cycles say Gusau’s main focus will be to work towards containing the Boko Haram insurgency and repositioning the Nigerian armed forces and security organizations on the basis of his vast experience, contacts and industry.
Source: Sahara Reporters
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