Exclusive: President Hassan Sheikh Eyes Loyalist Abdulkadir Mohamad Nur to Lead Somali Armed Forces

GAROWE, Somalia – Garowe Online has received credible information indicating that Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, widely known as “Madaxaa Ifuran”, is being considered for appointment as the next Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Somali National Armed Forces (SNF), a move that would mark a significant restructuring of Somalia’s security leadership.

Nur currently serves as Somalia’s Minister of Ports, and has previously held a series of top national posts including Minister of Defence, Minister of Justice, and Deputy Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). He also served in a diplomatic capacity as First Secretary at Somalia’s embassy in Turkey — the country’s most influential military partner.

If appointed, Nur would replace Odawa Yusuf Raage, a long-serving military figure who previously held the same role under former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, and who, like President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, hails from the same clan lineage. Raage’s tenure has spanned multiple administrations, earning him a reputation as a stabilizing figure within the armed forces.

Sources close to Villa Somalia note that President Hassan Sheikh has personally promoted Nur twice in the past three years, most recently to the rank of Major General, fueling speculation that the potential appointment is part of a broader political calculus. Nur’s close ties to Turkey, which operates Somalia’s largest foreign military base and trains the country’s elite units, have also sparked debate over the extent of Ankara’s influence in shaping Somalia’s defense leadership.

Critics argue that the move may be less about military competence and more about consolidating power ahead of the 2026 elections. They suggest that President Hassan Sheikh is surrounding himself with loyalists in key security positions, as also evidenced by the recent reappointment of Mahad Salad as head of NISA. Concerns are growing that this trend could undermine national unity, increase political polarization, and lead to further insecurity. Some observers also warn that Somalia’s sovereignty could be compromised if foreign partners appear to play a decisive role in selecting top national defense officials.

Supporters of Nur, however, point to his extensive background across the security, justice, and diplomatic sectors as evidence of his readiness to lead the SNF during a critical phase of reform. His familiarity with both regional dynamics and foreign defense cooperation, particularly with Turkey, is seen as an asset by those within the administration.

Garowe Online will continue to follow developments on this story and invites public reflection on whether this potential appointment signifies a step toward professionalizing Somalia’s armed forces — or a deeper entrenchment of political loyalty within the country’s most powerful institutions.

GAROWE ONLINE