Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, has said Nigerians should experience military training to better appreciate the discipline, endurance and sacrifices required of members of the Armed Forces.
According to Musa, this kind of training would help the public comprehend the hardships that soldiers face while performing their jobs, such as hunger, fatigue, sleep deprivation, and working in challenging conditions.
He said this while discussing the need for Nigerians to comprehend and value the military’s duties.
“Every Nigerian should undergo military training to understand what it means to stay hungry and learn what endurance means,” he said.
According to the minister, undergoing military-style training would provide citizens with a different perspective on life and help them understand the level of commitment required from personnel protecting the country.
He clarified that soldiers frequently have to carry out their duties in spite of physical tiredness, hunger, inclement weather, and extended periods of inactivity.
Musa also urged Nigerians to be more appreciative of those who serve in the armed forces, pointing out that in order to preserve national security, soldiers must leave their families behind and endure difficult circumstances.
He said the public should remember that military personnel are also fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters who put their lives at risk in the service of the country.
The minister’s comments come amid ongoing concerns over terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security challenges across different parts of Nigeria.
His demand for military training, however, should not be confused with the Defense Ministry’s previous stance on mandatory military service.
A representative of musa stated in February 2026 that the Federal Government had no intention of requiring military training or service for young Nigerians. The explanation was provided while a book about mandatory military service was being presented.
Musa has also previously called for greater public support for security agencies. In June 2026, he said exposing some media personalities to the realities faced by troops during operations could help them better understand the challenges confronting personnel in the field.
Earlier, in August 2025, while serving as Chief of Defence Staff, Musa encouraged Nigerians to acquire basic combat and self-defence skills. He cited activities such as karate, taekwondo and judo as useful survival skills, likening them to learning how to drive or swim.
