The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed claims that the Nigerian military plans to forcibly recruit citizens from the age of 18, describing the reports as completely false.
A video circulating online, which falsely attributed the statement to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, was deemed fabricated and manipulated.
Brigadier-General Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information (DDI), clarified that the military remains a noble profession, attracting thousands of patriotic Nigerians who willingly enlist through formal recruitment exercises.
He emphasized that the fake video and statement were intended to damage the reputation of the CDS and portray the military negatively.
Uba urged Nigerians to verify sources before sharing content, highlighting the dangers of disinformation in the age of artificial intelligence.
Official statements from the Chief of Defence Staff come only through verified DHQ spokespersons and official social media handles.
