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By: Sesan Rufus Awobiye

Lagos.

The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (retd), was on Thursday honoured with the prestigious Marketplace Minister Award at the JWCAM National Leadership Summit held in Lagos.

The award, presented by the Convener and Senior Pastor of Jesus Will Come Again Mission, Pastor Dr. Olubayode Olugbenga Awosika, was in recognition of General Musa’s exemplary leadership, distinguished service to the nation and his model as a believer excelling in the marketplace.

Presenting the award amidst thunderous applause from participants, Dr. Awosika described General Musa as a true definition of a marketplace minister — a man who has carried his faith into the highest levels of public service without compromise.

“General Musa represents what we teach at JWCAM — that your pulpit is not limited to the church altar. Your career, your uniform, your office is your pulpit. He has shown that a Christian can serve God and still serve his nation with integrity, courage and excellence,” Dr. Awosika said.

Dr. Awosika, who is a strong advocate for ministers succeeding in business and public life, noted that the Marketplace Minister Award was instituted to celebrate Christians who are shining as lights in governance, security, business and other secular spheres.

In his response, General Musa, who was appointed Minister of Defence by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in December 2025, expressed appreciation to the JWCAM leadership for the honour, describing it as a call to do more.

The former Chief of Defence Staff, who served from June 2023 to October 2025, said the award would further spur him to serve Nigeria with greater dedication and fear of God.

“I am humbled by this recognition. It shows that people are watching how we serve. I dedicate this award to the gallant men and women of the Nigerian Armed Forces who sacrifice daily for the peace of our country,” Musa stated.

The colourful award presentation formed part of the highlights of the one-day summit, which brought together leaders from the faith community, public service and private sector.