Every Nigerian Should Learn Combat Skills for Self-Defence – CDS General Musa

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has stressed the urgent need for every Nigerian citizen to acquire combat skills for self-defence in order to protect themselves during moments of danger and uncertainty.

General Musa gave this strong recommendation on Thursday while appearing as a guest on Politics Today, a popular programme aired on Channels Television.

According to him, acquiring basic combat knowledge is not just about military training but should be seen as a vital survival instinct similar to essential skills like driving and swimming.

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Combat Skills as Essential Survival Knowledge

When asked if Nigerians should deliberately pursue combat training for self-defence, General Musa responded emphatically, stating that such training must be regarded as compulsory.

He explained:

“That one should be taken just like learning how to drive or learning how to swim. Whether the nation faces war or not, self-defence remains a fundamental survival skill.”

Drawing comparisons with Europe, he highlighted how swimming is made compulsory in schools. In the same way, he suggested that security awareness and unarmed combat should be introduced into Nigeria’s basic education and training structures.

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NYSC Should Incorporate Combat Training

General Musa also recommended that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) integrate unarmed combat skills into the program for Nigerian graduates. According to him, such knowledge would empower young Nigerians to defend themselves in everyday situations, especially against individuals with criminal or violent tendencies.

He emphasized that the NYSC scheme could play a strategic role in ensuring that Nigerian youths graduate with both academic knowledge and practical defence training for real-life survival.

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Security Is Everyone’s Responsibility

The Defence Chief further reminded citizens that national security is a collective responsibility. He urged Nigerians to be vigilant, to remain aware of their environment, and to quickly recognize strange or suspicious individuals.

He concluded by stressing that awareness and preparedness are crucial, not only for personal protection but also for national safety and resilience in the face of insecurity.