In a surprising twist within Nigeria’s defence architecture, a quiet but significant realignment of power has triggered nationwide conversations and raised delicate questions within military and political circles. Just a few weeks ago, Nigeria’s then Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, was operating under the directive of Bello Matawalle, who served as Minister of State for Defence. The relationship was clear, defined, and traditionally hierarchical: a senior military officer saluting and taking orders from a civilian minister.
But that order has now been dramatically shaken.
With the recent restructuring that places General Christopher Musa in the substantive position of Minister of Defence, the paradigm has shifted entirely—and with it comes one central question dominating both Abuja’s corridors of influence and defence intelligence circles:
Will Bello Matawalle, formerly his superior, now function as a subordinate to the very man who once took directives from him?
This story goes beyond political reshuffling. It exposes a complex web of institutional power, military protocol, political egos, and the evolving nature of Nigeria’s defence governance under the current administration. Through interviews with insiders, an examination of past practice, and analysis of the unfolding political landscape, we dig into what this change really means and how it could alter Nigeria’s defence operations moving forward.
A Rapid and Unpredictable Turn of Events
Until recently, the Ministry of Defence was structured with a senior Minister (position vacant for months) and a Minister of State—Bello Matawalle—working alongside military commanders, including then-Chief of Defence Staff, General Musa. Under this arrangement, although the CDS is the highest-ranked uniformed officer, he reports to the political head of the ministry. In other words, military strategy meets civilian authority.
This structure meant General Musa regularly briefed, consulted, and saluted Matawalle.
But the political chessboard shifted abruptly.
The President’s decision to appoint General Musa as the substantive Minister of Defence, placing him effectively above Matawalle, is not merely administrative—it is symbolic. It overturns a chain of command that had only just settled and throws both men into a new dynamic that insiders say could either produce unprecedented synergy or subtle internal tension.
Power Dynamics: A General as Minister and a Politician as Deputy
In most democracies, a former military chief becoming Minister of Defence is not unusual. What makes Nigeria’s case distinct is the immediate reversal of roles between two key actors who only recently had a superior–subordinate relationship.
A senior official at the Ministry of Defence, speaking anonymously, explained:
“This is the first time in recent memory that the same individuals who shared a chain of command are now expected to reverse positions so quickly. Whether this creates friction depends heavily on personality, ego, and the willingness of both to adapt.”
Another source within the military added:
“Generals understand hierarchy. When the chain of command changes, they adapt. But political actors are different. The question is whether Matawalle will adjust to this new order.”
This is where the investigation deepens.
Matawalle’s Political Persona: A Man Not Known for Playing Second Fiddle
During his tenure as Governor of Zamfara State, Bello Matawalle was described by those close to him as assertive, sometimes stubborn, and rarely willing to be overshadowed. As Minister of State for Defence, he had carved out significant influence—much more than a junior minister ordinarily would—due to his close ties to key political figures and his bold style of engagement.
Sources familiar with his operations note that Matawalle often sought to be deeply involved in defence matters, sometimes even more than protocol required.
One defence analyst commented:
“Matawalle has never been the ‘quiet second-in-command.’ He sees himself as a power player. Asking him to become subordinate under General Musa—someone he previously supervised—may require a major psychological adjustment.”
This makes the new arrangement particularly delicate.
General Musa: A Straight-Command Soldier, Now Wearing a Political Hat
On the other side is General Christopher Musa, a respected soldier known for discipline, loyalty to chain of command, and professionalism. But stepping into the political office of Defence Minister introduces new complexities.
As CDS, he often operated under the guidance of political leaders. Now, those same leaders—including Matawalle—may have to take directives from him.
A retired general familiar with Musa’s style said:
“Musa is not confrontational. He is methodical and respects institutions. But make no mistake—once given authority, he will exercise it firmly. He will not compromise on issues he considers strategic.”
This means if Matawalle attempts to maintain his former level of control, there could be subtle tensions under the surface.
How the Defence Ministry Typically Functions
To understand the stakes, one must understand the internal structure of defence administration in Nigeria:
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The Minister of Defence is the senior civilian authority and the chief political head.
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The Minister of State assists, supports, and carries delegated responsibilities.
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The CDS and Service Chiefs implement military operations under civilian oversight.
Under the new arrangement, Musa becomes the civilian head, even though he only recently wore military uniform. Matawalle, by protocol, must report to him.
A constitutional lawyer explained:
“There is no ambiguity. The Minister of Defence has absolute administrative authority over the Ministry. Matawalle’s role is supportive. Whether he once supervised Musa is irrelevant under law.”
Still, the real dynamics of power often go beyond legal definitions.
Will Matawalle Take Instructions? Indicators and Early Signs
Multiple insiders shared observations that may shape what happens next:
1. Matawalle’s Personality
He is unlikely to quietly take a back seat unless compelled.
2. Musa’s Discipline and Professionalism
He is likely to maintain a firm but non-confrontational authority.
3. The President’s Influence
If the President wants Musa to take full charge—and evidence strongly suggests he does—then Matawalle will have little room to resist.
4. Public Optics
If Matawalle is seen resisting Musa, it could damage his political standing and spark public criticism.
5. Their Shared Interests
Both men ultimately aim to reduce insecurity in the country. Cooperation may benefit them politically and strategically.
Possible Scenarios
Scenario 1: Smooth Cooperation
Matawalle adjusts to the new hierarchy, Musa delegates generously, and the ministry functions efficiently.
Scenario 2: Silent Rivalry
Matawalle maintains political influence while Musa holds constitutional authority—leading to a subtle but persistent internal struggle.
Scenario 3: Presidential Intervention
If tensions escalate, the President may restructure roles again or reassign responsibilities more clearly.
Scenario 4: Full Submission
Matawalle accepts the new order, recognising that political survival often depends on adaptation.
A Larger Question: Why the Reshuffling?
Some analysts believe the President wanted a more militarily experienced figure to directly lead defence policy during a period of heightened national security challenges.
Others argue that Musa’s elevation signals a shift toward tougher security strategies, while Matawalle’s role becomes more political and diplomatic.
A national security strategist noted:
“It appears the President wants Musa to run Defence with a knowledge-based, field-experienced approach. Matawalle will likely handle administrative and political coordination.”
This aligns with common practice in countries facing severe security threats.
Conclusion: A New Chain of Command, A Test of Ego and Discipline
So, will Bello Matawalle now take instructions from General Christopher Musa?
By law, yes.
By protocol, yes.
By political necessity, yes.
By personal inclination—this is where the battle may lie.
The coming weeks will reveal whether this unprecedented reversal of roles will produce friction, cooperation, or a quiet redefinition of power within the Ministry of Defence.
One thing is clear: Nigeria’s security leadership has entered a new era—one where a former CDS now sits atop the ministry, and the man he once saluted must adjust to a new chain of command.
The story is still unfolding, and all of Abuja is watching.