Amid worsening security challenges across the country, Nigerians are calling for the immediate sack of Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, after he reportedly travelled to the United Arab Emirates to attend the Dubai Airshow 2025 without first visiting or addressing states recently hit by violent attacks.
Badaru is said to be participating in the five-day Dubai Airshow 2025, which runs until November 21 at the Dubai World Central aviation hub. This year’s edition, themed “The Future is Here,” brings together global manufacturers, defence leaders, and industry experts to explore cutting-edge advancements in aviation, aerospace, and military technologies.
However, many Nigerians are questioning the timing of the minister’s trip, coming at a period marked by mass abductions, terror attacks, and rising unrest in several parts of the country. They argue that Badaru’s departure for an international exhibition shows a lack of urgency and concern for the nation’s security crisis.
Eyewitnesses at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos alleged that the minister “sneaked out of the country,” sparking further outrage. Critics say President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s continued retention of Badaru despite what they describe as his “poor performance” and “lack of capacity” to manage the Defence Ministry is unacceptable.
According to them, Badaru has failed to demonstrate the leadership needed to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture at a time the country is battling repeated terrorist attacks, banditry, and kidnappings.
The minister is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the airshow.
Such a simple yet powerful message. Thanks for this.