In recent comments, Nigeria's Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.), clarified that the Federal Government has no intentions to implement mandatory military service for the country's youth. Instead, the government is committed to maintaining a professional volunteer armed forces model enhanced by civic national service initiatives. This statement comes amidst ongoing discussions regarding reforms in Nigeria's defence sector due to the persistent security challenges facing the nation.

The Minister made these remarks during the presentation of a publication titled "Serving the Nation: Exploring Mandatory Military Service for Nigerian Youths" in Abuja. Although the publication aims to contribute to the national discourse surrounding service and nation-building, Musa emphasized that it does not align with the government’s current policies on military service. His statements imply that the focus will remain on volunteerism rather than conscription, reflecting the government's strategy to promote a professional military force engaged through civic programs rather than mandatory enlistment.

The context of Musa's assertions also highlights the ongoing security struggles Nigeria confronts, fueling debates on how to enhance youth involvement in national security measures. The absence of plans for mandatory service reflects a preference for fostering voluntary participation in military service, thus promoting civic responsibility without enacting compulsory requirements that could be controversial in this multi-faceted national context.