The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has proposed compulsory military training for Nigerian citizens, saying the experience could help people better understand the demands and sacrifices involved in protecting the country.
Musa made the proposal while speaking on the African Leadership Podcast hosted by Ken Giami. He said exposing Nigerians to military-style training would give them a different understanding of life, discipline and the responsibilities that come with defending the nation.
The former Chief of Defence Staff explained that military training involves physical and mental challenges that ordinary people may not experience in their daily lives. He said going through such conditions could help citizens understand the difficulties faced by members of the Armed Forces during their duties.
According to the minister, military training could teach Nigerians how to cope with hunger, tiredness, lack of sleep and physical exhaustion while still carrying out assigned responsibilities.
He said soldiers are often required to continue moving and completing their duties even when they are physically weak or have gone for long periods without food or rest. Musa said experiencing some of these conditions could help civilians understand the level of endurance expected from military personnel.
The Defence Minister also linked the proposed training to the duty of protecting the country. He said members of the Armed Forces put their lives at risk in the course of serving Nigeria and protecting its citizens.
Musa expressed concern over situations where members of the public criticise or insult military personnel without fully understanding the demands of their work. He said greater public knowledge of military duties could improve citizens’ appreciation of the sacrifices made by soldiers.
The minister’s proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about national security and the relationship between civilians and security agencies. He maintained that giving Nigerians some form of military experience could provide them with a clearer understanding of the responsibilities involved in national defence and the personal sacrifices required from those serving in the Armed Forces.