Military clarifies comment by CDS, denies call for citizens to carry arms

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports suggesting that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, urged Nigerians to bear arms for self-protection.

In a statement signed by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, the DHQ said the remarks made by the CDS during a Channels Television interview on Thursday, August 20, 2025, were misrepresented.

According to the statement, General Musa only encouraged Nigerians to develop basic survival and self-protection skills, likening such training to life skills such as driving, taekwondo, judo, swimming and boxing.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the CDS did not call for citizens to bear arms or to engage in unlawful possession of firearms. He is fully aware of Nigerian laws prohibiting the unauthorized carrying of weapons,” the DHQ clarified.

The Armed Forces, the statement added, remains committed to ensuring the safety and protection of Nigerians, noting that the military and other security agencies continue to achieve significant gains in the fight against insecurity across the country.

It stressed that the message of the CDS was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness—not to encourage illegal activity.

The DHQ further urged Nigerians to rely on original sources and verified reports when interpreting public statements, cautioning against the spread of distorted or misleading accounts.

“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to the safety and well-being of all Nigerians,” the statement read.