The Defence Headquarters has clarified that Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt.-Gen. Christopher Musa’s call to citizens to engage in self-protection as part of measures to tackle insecurity is not a call to bear arms.

The Director of Defence Information (DDI), Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, recalled in a statement on Friday, that the CDS made a call during a Channels Television interview on Thursday evening, and expressed concern about the deliberate attempts to misrepresent the comments.

“In that interview, the CDS encouraged Nigerians to develop basic survival and self‑protection skills—likening such training to widely accepted life skills such as driving, taekwondo, judo, swimming, boxing, amongst others.

“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 unauthorised carrying of weapons. His message was intended to promote personal resilience, situational awareness and lawful preparedness—not to encourage illegal activity,” the DDI said.

He said promoting security awareness at all levels “is important as 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 remain committed to the safety and well‑being of all Nigerians.”

Gusau said the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies were recording significant successes in the fight against insecurity nationwide, noting that the gains reflected the government’s sustained commitment to protecting citizens and maintaining peace and stability.