Nigerian soldiers will soon return to their barracks, according to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa.
This move marks a significant step as the Nigerian military shifts focus towards peace and stability in the country.
General Musa made the announcement on Friday during the unveiling of the 2025 Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) tattoo logo at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
The decision to send troops back to their barracks comes as the military makes progress in its fight against insurgency. The war against militant groups has dominated the country’s security landscape for many years.
“Regimentation is what keeps the military moving,” General Musa said. “It’s what teaches soldiers to follow commands and work together as a team, even in the face of adversity.”
The CDS emphasized that this return to barracks would be critical in restoring the discipline and order that is central to military life.
For many years, Nigeria’s soldiers have been engaged in intense combat operations across various regions. As a result, younger officers and soldiers have often missed out on the traditional experiences of life in the barracks.
“Many young soldiers have not had the opportunity to experience life in the barracks due to the ongoing security operations,” Musa explained. “We want to give them the chance to experience the camaraderie and esprit de corps that comes with living and working together in a military environment.”
The return to barracks will also provide these soldiers with the chance to better prepare for future challenges, by building their skills and deepening their understanding of military life.
In his speech, General Musa stressed that the move was also about reinforcing the values of discipline, regimentation, and teamwork, all of which are essential for military effectiveness.
“By bringing soldiers back to the barracks, we are ensuring they are better equipped to handle future security challenges,” he said. “This is not just about combat readiness, but also about instilling a culture of teamwork and discipline that is vital to military success.”
The return to barracks will be done in phases, with the first phase expected to begin in 2025. General Musa expressed confidence that the transition would positively impact the military and the country as a whole.
“The regimentation we are aiming to bring back will improve the overall performance of our troops,” he added. “We are confident that this will make our soldiers more effective and disciplined.”
The military’s relationship with the civilian population is also expected to improve as part of this move.
“We want to reassure the civilian population that we are committed to protecting them and their interests,” General Musa said. “By returning to barracks, we are demonstrating our commitment to our traditional role as protectors of the nation.”
This move is also seen as part of a broader effort to stabilize Nigeria after years of conflict and insurgency. The military has faced increasing pressure to not only secure the country but also to maintain positive relations with civilians who have been impacted by years of violence.
Musa called for support from the civilian population as the military makes this transition. “We need the understanding and cooperation of the civil population as we make this transition,” he said.
The Nigerian military’s role has been crucial in the fight against insurgents in the North East, as well as in tackling other forms of insecurity across the country. However, this new phase signals a shift in the military’s strategy, moving from active combat operations to peace-building efforts.
The CDS assured the public that the military would continue its primary role of protecting Nigerians, but the focus would now include rebuilding the social and institutional frameworks that are necessary for long-term peace.
“Regimentation, discipline, and teamwork are what will help us secure the country,” Musa said. “We are committed to working together with the civil population to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”
