FG Speaks On Compulsory Military Training For Youths

Defence Ministry rejects claims of compulsory military service.
NYSC and volunteer forces remain central to youth engagement.
Government encourages research and dialogue on national service policies.

The Federal Government has denied claims that it plans to introduce mandatory military service for Nigerian youths.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that speaking during the presentation of a publication titled “Serving the Nation: Exploring Mandatory Military Service for Nigerian Youths” in Abuja on Friday, the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd), clarified that the reports are unfounded. He said the government remains committed to maintaining a professional volunteer armed forces supported by civic national service programmes.

Represented at the event by the Deputy Director, Special Duties, Col. George Usibe, Musa explained that Nigeria’s security framework relies on a professional volunteer military complemented by civic national service, particularly the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC).

He said, “Across the world, approaches to national service vary considerably. While some countries maintain mandatory military service, a larger proportion operate professional volunteer forces supported by civic national service, reserve systems, and community preparedness frameworks.

“Our Armed Forces operate as a professional volunteer military dedicated to defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic while supporting civil authorities in addressing internal security challenges.

“This professional force is complemented by civic national service through the NYSC, which continues to promote national integration, exposure, and youth engagement across our diverse federation.

“Additional youth-oriented and community-based platforms further contribute to resilience and civic responsibility within our society. It is therefore important to state clearly that there is presently no policy to introduce mandatory military service in Nigeria.”

Musa emphasised that national security is shaped by effective governance, capable institutions, and strong citizen–state relations, rather than manpower alone. He also welcomed scholarly inquiry and public dialogue on national service, stressing that any future policy must align with constitutional provisions, economic realities, and institutional capacity.

“The publication being presented today represents a commendable effort to stimulate evidence-based discussion on an issue of strategic relevance,” he added.