…Describes the appointment as a privilege, a responsibility, and a call to strengthen Nigeria’s defence system.
Thank you for visiting The Vestigator, don't forget to share!
Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, has described his posting as a great honour and a profound responsibility. He expressed his appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for entrusting him with the opportunity to contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s defence architecture.
He made these remarks on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, shortly after assuming duty at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters, Ship House, Abuja.
Mr. Pheelangwa pledged to uphold professionalism, transparency, discipline, and teamwork as he leads efforts in advancing the ministry’s core responsibilities, which include defence policy development, military administration, logistics, procurement, and international defence cooperation.
He reiterated his readiness to work collaboratively with the Honourable Minister, Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Service Chiefs, Directors, and all ministry staff to improve operational efficiency, resource management, and the readiness of defence institutions. He also emphasized that staff welfare will remain a priority, noting that “welfare is not a luxury, but a necessity.”
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Director overseeing the office of the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Sunday Attah, informed Mr. Pheelangwa that the ministry boasts a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals. He assured the new Permanent Secretary of the full cooperation and support of the management and staff as they work together to achieve the ministry’s goals.
The ceremony peaked with the formal signing of the handing-over and taking-over documents by the outgoing Director and the new Permanent Secretary. Mr. Pheelangwa was redeployed to the Ministry of Defence from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Director of Legal Services, Mohammed Hamza, expressed confidence that the Permanent Secretary can rely on a committed and capable team. He stressed that staff are ready to collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to ensuring his success.
The event was attended by Directors and senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, as well as representatives from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources.
Enderline Chukwu
AD, Information and Public Relations
For: Director, Information and Public Relations
