Defence Headquarters Clarifies CDS Musa’s Self-Protection Comments Amid Insecurity Concerns.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a statement to address what it describes as a misrepresentation of comments made by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt.-Gen. Christopher Musa, regarding self-protection measures for Nigerians facing rising insecurity. The clarification, released on Friday, 22 August 2025, emphasises that the CDS did not advocate for citizens to bear arms, as some reports had suggested, but rather encouraged the development of basic survival and self-protection skills.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s *Politics Today* programme on Thursday, 20 August 2025, Lt.-Gen. Musa spoke about the need for Nigerians to cultivate resilience and situational awareness in response to ongoing security challenges, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings. He likened self-defence training to essential life skills such as driving, swimming, or practising martial arts like taekwondo, judo, and boxing. The DHQ stressed that these remarks were intended to promote lawful preparedness, not to encourage the illegal possession of firearms.
Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, stated, “For the avoidance of doubt, the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or engage in unlawful possession of firearms. He is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorised carrying of weapons.” Gusau further clarified that Musa’s comments were aimed at fostering personal security awareness, which he described as vital for complementing the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.
The statement comes in the wake of growing concerns about insecurity in various parts of Nigeria, particularly in the North-East, North-West, and states like Benue and Plateau, where terrorist and bandit attacks have surged. Lt.-Gen. Musa noted during the interview that the military continues to make significant strides in combating these threats, citing the arrest of key terrorist figures, including the son of Boko Haram’s founder and Ansaru commanders, as evidence of progress. However, he acknowledged that insecurity cannot be eradicated overnight and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and supportive of security efforts.
The CDS also highlighted the importance of incorporating unarmed combat training into the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) curriculum, arguing that such skills would better equip young Nigerians to handle day-to-day threats from criminals. He stressed that security is a collective responsibility, encouraging citizens to stay alert and report suspicious activities in their communities.
The DHQ’s clarification has been welcomed by many, who see it as an effort to correct misinformation that could have fuelled public panic or misunderstanding. The statement urged the public to consult verified sources when interpreting official remarks and to refrain from spreading distorted accounts. It also reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to protecting Nigerians and maintaining national stability.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with complex security challenges, including the fallout from regional instability in the Sahel and the upcoming 2027 general elections, which Musa suggested may be linked to the recent spike in violence, the military’s call for public cooperation underscores the need for a united front. The DHQ assured citizens that ongoing operations, supported by government initiatives, are yielding results and that the safety and well-being of Nigerians remain the top priority.
“We are making progress, and with the continued support of the public, we will overcome these challenges,” Gusau concluded, echoing the CDS’s message of resilience and collective action in the face of adversity.
