A former governorship contender in Zamfara State, Alhaji Sani Shinkafi, has called for the immediate abolition of the office of the Minister of State for Defence, arguing that the position has outlived its usefulness amid Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
In an open letter addressed to the United States through its embassy in Nigeria, the APC chieftain also demanded the removal of the current holder of the office, Bello Matawalle, citing structural and operational concerns within the defence architecture.
Shinkafi hinged his appeal on the recent appointment of a new Minister of Defence, General Musa Christopher, noting that the current arrangement risks undermining effective command and coordination.
According to him, the new defence chief previously served under Matawalle, a situation he described as awkward and counterproductive.
Writing on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Shinkafi said Nigeria’s security crisis requires a single, empowered leadership at the Ministry of Defence.
He stressed that fragmented authority weakens the fight against terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and related crimes.
“The country needs a bold and experienced military hand who can take full charge without distractions,” Shinkafi said. “At this critical moment, unity of command is not optional; it is essential.”
He further argued that scrapping the office of the Minister of State for Defence would give the substantive minister the latitude to reform and reposition the armed forces in collaboration with the President and service chiefs.
Moreover, Shinkafi maintained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown resolve in confronting criminal networks and should reinforce that stance by streamlining the defence leadership.
“This is about national interest and strengthening the chain of command to protect our sovereignty,” he added.
He also claimed that public sentiment increasingly favours the removal of the minister of state, pointing to reactions across traditional media, social platforms and civic actions.
According to him, citizens view security as a collective priority that demands decisive governance.
In his letter, Shinkafi urged the US government to leverage its diplomatic engagement with Nigeria to encourage a review of the Ministry of Defence’s operational structure. He described the proposed reform as a necessary step toward efficiency and stability.
“Consolidating the ministry under one command will enhance clarity, discipline and direction,” he said.
“It will send a strong signal that Nigeria is serious about restoring peace at a time of profound security emergency.”