Every Nigerian Should Undergo Military Training — Defence Minister

The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has said every Nigerian should be able to undergo military training to better understand the demands, discipline and sacrifices involved in protecting the country.

Musa made the remarks while speaking on the African Leadership Podcast with Ken Giami, in an interview released on Monday.

The minister said exposure to military training would give Nigerians a different perspective on life and help them appreciate the physical and mental challenges faced by members of the Armed Forces.

According to him, military training exposes personnel to difficult conditions, including hunger, exhaustion, sleepless nights and prolonged physical exertion.

Musa said Nigerians who experience such conditions would better understand the endurance required of soldiers who continue carrying out their duties despite fatigue and discomfort.

He said military personnel often walk long distances while exhausted and sometimes operate without adequate food or rest because of the nature of their assignments.

The minister linked these experiences to the sacrifices soldiers make in protecting lives and property across the country.

Musa also appealed to Nigerians to show greater appreciation for members of the Armed Forces, stressing that soldiers are fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters who leave their families behind while serving in challenging environments.

He said personnel remain in the field through rain, dust, night and day to ensure the security of the country.

The former Chief of Defence Staff further said military training teaches the importance of teamwork, noting that no individual can operate effectively in isolation.

Musa also spoke about the sacrifices made by military families, recalling that during the first 17 years of his marriage, he never spent 30 consecutive days with his family because of his military duties.

On the broader security situation, the minister said Nigeria’s fight against insurgency requires both military and non-military approaches. He estimated that the non-kinetic component, including access to food, good roads, healthcare, education and security, accounts for a significant part of the response.

Musa also said Nigeria was strengthening security cooperation with neighbouring countries, including Cameroon, while addressing border challenges.

The minister’s comments come amid continuing concerns over terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the country.