The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), has advocated for mandatory military training for all Nigerian citizens to instil a deeper sense of national responsibility and understanding of the armed forces` sacrifices.

Speaking on the African Leadership Podcast with Ken Giami, General Musa emphasized that the rigorous physical and mental challenges of military drilling—including hunger, exhaustion, and sleep deprivation—offer an irreplaceable perspective on life and national service.

The former Chief of Defence Staff argued that first-hand experience with military adversity would reshape how ordinary citizens view the responsibilities of nation-building.

"Every Nigerian should be able to go through military training. It will give you a different perspective about life," General Musa stated. "You will understand what it means to stay hungry, what it means to walk for days without sleep. It will show you what endurance means—when you are tired but you still need to keep on going to protect the country."

Citing biblical principles of self-sacrifice, the Minister expressed deep concern over public criticism aimed at the military, noting that troops routinely place their lives on the line so that ordinary citizens can live in peace.

He concluded that exposing the broader populace to military life would put an end to public insults against service members and foster a unified, more appreciative front against the nation`s security challenges.