CDS Didn’t Ask Nigerians to Bear Arms for Self-protection – DHQ Clarifies

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reacted to concerns making the round on social media that Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, asked every Nigerian to bear arms as part of his admonition that Nigerians should learn combat skills for self protection in the event of danger.

The CDS had during a Channels Television interview on Thursday evening 20 August 2025, encouraged Nigerians to develop basic survival and self‑protection skills—likening such training to widely accepted life skills such as driving, taekwando, judo and swimming, boxing amongst others.

In a statement on Friday, countering the “deliberate attempts to misrepresent” the CDS comments, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information at the Defence Headquarters, clarified that the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or to engage in unlawful possession of firearms.

According to him, He (CDS) is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorized carrying of weapons. His message was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness—not to encourage illegal activity.

The DHQ further emphasized that the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies continue to record significant successes in the fight against insecurity nationwide.

The statement further reads; “These gains reflect the government’s sustained commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining peace and stability. Nigerians are assured that their safety remains a top priority and that security efforts are ongoing.

“Promoting security awareness at all levels is important. Basic skills such as unarmed self‑defence, swimming and driving are valuable life skills that enhance individual preparedness and contribute to 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 Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and well‑being of all Nigerians”.