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The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that the call by the Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a Channels Television interview on Thursday did not imply the bearing of arms.
DHQ maintained that the CDS only canvassed for Nigerians to acquire basic survival and self‑protection skills—likening such training to widely accepted life skills such as driving, taekwando, judo and swimming, boxing amongst others.
The DHQ in a statement by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, on Friday noted with concern deliberate attempts to misrepresent comments by the CDS.
It reads in parts; "The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has noted with concern deliberate attempts to misrepresent comments by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a Channels Television interview on Thursday evening 20 August 2025. In that interview, the CDS encouraged Nigerians to develop basic survival and self‑protection skills—likening such training to widely accepted life skills such as driving, taekwando, judo and swimming, boxing amongst others.
"For the avoidance of doubt, the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or to engage in unlawful possession of firearms. He is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorized carrying of weapons.
"His message was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness—not to encourage illegal activity.
"The DHQ further emphasizes that the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies continue to record significant successes in the fight against insecurity nationwide. These gains reflect the government’s sustained commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining peace and stability. Nigerians are assured that their safety remains a top priority and that security efforts are ongoing.
"Promoting security awareness at all levels is important. Basic skills such as unarmed self‑defence, swimming and driving are valuable life skills that enhance individual preparedness and contribute to national security. We therefore urge the public to consult original sources and verified reports when interpreting public statements, and to avoid sharing distorted or misleading accounts.
"The Afmed Forcesnof Nigeria remains committed to the safety and well‑being of all Nigerians."