The Nigerian Minister of Defence has commended a new publication exploring mandatory military service for Nigerian youths, saying it contributes to national discourse on youth development and security.
The publication, “Serving the Nation: Exploring Mandatory Military Service for Nigerian Youths”, was presented in Abuja.
The book was authored by Dr Mohammed Abubakar and published by Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd.
In a speech read on his behalf, the minister noted that while there’s no current policy to introduce mandatory military service, the idea warrants examination.
The minister emphasised Nigeria’s professional volunteer military and civic national service through the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
He highlighted global experiences showing security challenges require multifaceted responses, not just manpower models.
“Countries with conscription and volunteer systems face asymmetric threats, stressing effective governance and citizen-state relations are key.
“The publication explores pathways for harnessing youth energy and patriotism for national development.”
The event featured senior military officers, security agencies, and stakeholders praising the author’s contribution.
The minister commended Dr Mohammed Abubakar and Sprezzatura Publishing Limited for stimulating discussion.
”The broader debate on national service presents perspectives worthy of balanced reflection, the Minister noted.
”Advocates highlight structured service fostering unity, discipline, and civic consciousness.
”Consideration of mandatory service must be guided by constitutional principles and fiscal realities,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria’s policy outlook is pragmatic, consultative, and forward-looking.
”The focus is on innovative hybrid approaches to civic service and skills acquisition.
”The publication aligns with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritizing human capital and unity.”
Musa added that, while a number of countries maintained mandatory military service as part of their defence architecture, a larger proportion operated professional volunteer armed forces supported by civic national service and reserve systems.
“This diversity reflects a fundamental reality that national service models are shaped by context including constitutional arrangements, security environments, economic capacity and societal expectations.
“Equally instructive is the global experience that contemporary security challenges such as insurgency and terrorism are not determined solely by manpower models,” he said.
Also the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, who was represented by Lt.-Col. Samuel Sanaje commended the author for coming out with a good opinion in the book.
Also speaking, an expert, Dr AK Peters presented a comparative analysis on mandatory military service in Finland, South Korea and Israel.
According to him, mandatory service must not become exploitation and it must not become politicised.
“It must be structured to build, not burden, the youth. If designed poorly, it creates resentment. If designed well, it becomes a powerful nation-building tool.
“Conclusion from Finland, we learn the power of reserves and preparedness. From South Korea, we learn the strength of shared obligation. From Israel, we learn how service can shape innovation and national identity.
“Nigeria must not copy blindly. We must adapt wisely.
“Mandatory military service, if anchored in fairness, skill development, national integration, and strong governance, can strengthen national security, empower our youth, promote unity, enhance resilience,” he said
Dr Tijani Saraki, an expert said the idea of mandatory military service in Nigeria is not about militarising society, but nation building, discipline and national cohesion.
He stated that there was the need to confront headlong insurgency, banditry, kidnappings, separatist tension and translational criminal networks across the country.
Meanwhile, the author of the book, Dr Mohammed Abubakar said the book, affectionately known as the “TY Buratai Book”, is dedicated to the illustrious retired Lt.-Gen TY Buratai.
According to him, Buratai’s contributions to Nigeria’s military and security landscape are highly revered.
“Nigeria faces numerous security challenges; from insurgency and terrorism to banditry and armed group threats.
“In addressing these challenges, I drew inspiration from countries like Finland, Israel, South Korea, and Singapore, which empower their youths through mandatory military service, instilling patriotism, discipline, and defense readiness
“A survey conducted during the course of researching this book revealed that 73.1 per cent of Nigerians believe that mandatory military service is necessary for Nigerian youths.
“And 79.7 per cent believe that it will address the pressing security challenges confronting Nigeria,” Abubakar said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 12 chapter, 228 pages book was published by Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd.
The General Manager, Sprezzatura Publishing Ltd, Mr Philip Ikodor, lauded the author for a thorough job done on the book. (NAN)
