The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, called on Nigerians to bear arms.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by the Director Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the DHQ said the CDS’ recent comments during a Channels Television interview on Thursday, 20 August 2025, were “deliberately misrepresented.”
General Musa, the statement explained, only encouraged Nigerians to acquire basic self-protection and survival skills—such as taekwondo, judo, boxing, swimming and driving—describing them as life skills that enhance resilience and preparedness.
“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 unauthorized carrying of weapons. His message was simply to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness.”
The Defence Headquarters further highlighted that the Armed Forces and other security agencies are making steady gains in the fight against insecurity nationwide. These achievements, it noted, reflect government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring peace.
“Nigerians are assured that their safety remains a top priority,” the statement added, urging the public to rely on verified sources and avoid spreading distorted accounts of official statements.
The DHQ concluded by reiterating that promoting security awareness and lawful self-defence training is a vital part of national security efforts.
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