The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has refuted social media claims and viral videos alleging that young Nigerians from age 18 would be compelled to join the military.
It said the reports, which were linked to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, were “fake” and meant to damage his reputation and present the Armed Forces negatively.
In a statement released by the Director of Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Samaila Uba, the military authorities stressed that joining the Armed Forces remains a “noble profession with thousands of patriotic Nigerians ever ready to willingly join its ranks as attested to during various recruitment exercises into the three arms of the Nigerian military.”
The statement added that “the purported statement was never made by the Chief of Defence Staff, any of the Service Chiefs and indeed by any member of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” making it clear that the viral claims had no basis.
The DHQ also warned the public to be careful when forwarding statements or videos so as not to amplify fake content, urging citizens to confirm the origin and credibility of information before distributing it.
“It is therefore important for all to note that all statements and releases from the Chief of Defence Staff are to be sourced from verified Defence Headquarter’s designated spokespersons and its official social media handles,” it stated.
The military authorities urged Nigerians to completely ignore the “fake” story and accompanying video, describing them as misleading and unfounded.
