‘Every Nigerian Should Undergo Military Training’ — Defence Minister

Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has proposed that all Nigerians should receive some form of military training to gain a better understanding of the demands and sacrifices involved in protecting the country.

Musa made the proposal during an appearance on the African Leadership Podcast with Ken Giami, released on Monday.

The minister said military training could give citizens a clearer understanding of the physical and mental demands faced by members of the armed forces. He noted that military personnel often operate under difficult conditions, including long periods without food or sleep, physical exhaustion and harsh weather.

According to Musa, experiencing such conditions could help Nigerians understand the level of endurance required from soldiers who are deployed to protect the country.

He said military service requires personnel to continue carrying out their duties despite fatigue, hunger and other physical challenges. He added that soldiers accept these hardships as part of their responsibility to safeguard the nation.

Musa also spoke about the personal sacrifices made by members of the armed forces. He said soldiers often leave their families behind for extended periods while carrying out operations in different parts of the country.

The minister appealed to Nigerians to view soldiers as ordinary members of families who have accepted difficult responsibilities in the interest of national security. He said criticism of the military should take into account the conditions under which personnel carry out their duties.

Musa noted that soldiers operate in different environments and may spend long periods exposed to rain, dust, heat and darkness while maintaining security operations.

He also addressed the security situation around Nigeria’s borders, linking increased infiltration to developments in the Sahel region. He pointed to the withdrawal of Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali from the Economic Community of West African States and said Nigeria was strengthening bilateral security relationships with neighbouring countries, including Cameroon.

The minister said efforts to improve border security remained necessary as the country continued to deal with security threats and movements across its borders.