“Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills For Self-Defence”— Says CDS Musa.
General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff of the Nigerian Armed Forces, has urged all Nigerians to acquire basic combat skills to protect themselves, stressing the importance of personal security in the face of growing national challenges. Speaking at a security conference in Abuja, General Musa argued that self-defence training could enhance community resilience and support the military’s efforts to combat insecurity.
With a distinguished career leading counter-insurgency operations, General Musa highlighted the diverse threats facing Nigeria, including banditry, kidnapping, and insurgency. “Self-defence skills are not about promoting violence but about ensuring survival and confidence in the face of danger,” he said, advocating for citizens to take greater responsibility for their safety.
General Musa proposed community-based training programmes, supported by the military and local authorities, to teach practical self-defence techniques, situational awareness, and conflict de-escalation. He noted that such initiatives would be particularly valuable in rural areas, where security forces may not always be readily available. “A resilient population is our greatest asset,” he said, emphasising the need for collaboration between civilians and security agencies.
Reflecting on his leadership in operations like Hadin Kai, which has made strides against Boko Haram, General Musa suggested that civilian training could complement broader national security strategies. He envisioned a united approach where empowered citizens become partners in securing the nation.
The proposal has generated mixed reactions. Some community leaders support the idea, believing it could deter crime in vulnerable areas, while others worry about the potential misuse of combat skills. General Musa reassured critics that any programme would be tightly regulated, focusing solely on defensive capabilities.
Amid ongoing security challenges, including bandit attacks in the northwest and insurgency in the northeast, General Musa praised the armed forces’ dedication and called for public support. “This is a collective effort,” he said. “The military cannot do it alone. Every citizen has a role to play.”
General Musa’s call for self-defence training underscores his vision of fostering resilience and unity, aligning with his commitment to protecting democracy and building a safer Nigeria.