DHQ clarifies CDS’s comment on self-defence skills

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has clarified that the statement made by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, during a recent television interview on “Self-Defence Skills” was not a call for Nigerians to bear arms, but rather an encouragement to cultivate basic self-protection and survival skills.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday by the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ described circulating claims suggesting otherwise as a deliberate misrepresentation of the CDS’s remarks.

The statement explained that General Musa only urged Nigerians to embrace essential survival and self-defence training, comparing them to everyday life skills such as driving, swimming, taekwondo, judo, and boxing.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or engage in unlawful possession of firearms,” the DHQ stressed. “He is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorised carrying of weapons. His message was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness — not to encourage illegal activity.”

The military authorities further assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces and other security agencies have continued to record significant successes in the ongoing fight against insecurity across the country. According to the DHQ, these gains reflect government’s determination to protect lives and maintain national stability.

The statement added that encouraging Nigerians to develop lawful self-defence and survival skills contributes to individual preparedness and strengthens 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 DHQ cautioned.

It reiterated that the safety and well-being of Nigerians remain a top priority for the Armed Forces.