Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), has called for every Nigerian to undergo military training, saying the experience would help citizens better understand the sacrifices and challenges faced by members of the Armed Forces

Musa made the proposal while speaking on the African Leadership Podcast hosted by Ken Giami.

The former Chief of Defence Staff said military training would expose civilians to the realities of service, including hunger, exhaustion, physical strain and going without sleep.

“Every Nigerian should be able to go through military training. I can tell you for free, it will give you a different perspective about life. You will now understand what it means to stay hungry, what it means to walk in days without sleep.”

According to the minister, such training would teach Nigerians what it means to persevere even when they are physically exhausted and uncomfortable.

“It will show you what endurance means, when you walk kilometres and you are tired but you still need to keep on going.”

Musa said military personnel endure such conditions because they are carrying out their duties to protect the country.

He also compared the sacrifice of soldiers to the biblical teaching that there is no greater love than giving one’s life for a friend.

“And that’s exactly what the military men are doing, putting their lives at stake for their country to move around.”

He also expressed concern over criticism directed at the military, particularly from people who question the need for continued military operations.

“That’s why sometimes it’s very painful when you see people insulting the military and telling them they don’t need it or we don’t want this to end.”

Musa’s proposal comes amid ongoing discussions about national security, military service and the relationship between civilians and the Armed Forces.