The Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), has suggested that Nigerians should have the opportunity to undergo military training as a way of gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices involved in defending the country.
Musa made the proposal during an appearance on the African Leadership Podcast hosted by Ken Giami, in an episode released on Monday.
According to the Defence Minister, exposure to military training could help civilians appreciate the physical and mental demands faced by members of the armed forces.
He explained that military personnel often endure hunger, fatigue, long periods without sleep and strenuous physical activities while carrying out their duties.
Musa said experiencing such conditions, even through training, would give Nigerians a better appreciation of what soldiers go through in the course of protecting the nation.
The former Chief of Defence Staff also stressed that members of the military make significant personal sacrifices because of their responsibilities.
He said soldiers frequently leave their families behind and operate in difficult weather and environmental conditions while working to keep the country secure.
Musa appealed to Nigerians to avoid dismissing or insulting members of the armed forces, noting that soldiers are also fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters and other members of families who make sacrifices in the line of duty.
He further said the security challenges facing Nigeria have been affected by developments in the Sahel region.
According to him, the withdrawal of Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali from the Economic Community of West African States has contributed to increased concerns over border infiltration.
The minister added that Nigeria is strengthening bilateral security cooperation with neighbouring countries, including Cameroon, as part of efforts to improve security around the country’s southern borders.
Musa maintained that greater public understanding of the realities of military service could help Nigerians appreciate the responsibilities and sacrifices associated with national defence.
