The Nigerian Army has dismissed as false a viral online publication alleging plans to forcefully recruit Nigerians aged 18 and above into military service.

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Appolonia Anele, described the claim, falsely credited to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, as a “malicious fabrication deliberately crafted to mislead the public and incite fear.”

The viral post had alleged that the COAS threatened compulsory conscription for youths who fail to voluntarily enlist and further claimed that 10,000 soldiers recruited last year had gone missing.

Anele said the allegations were entirely unfounded, stressing that the COAS never made such remarks at any time or in any forum.

Army Warns Against Circulating False Information

The spokesperson warned individuals and groups circulating false and inciting information to desist, saying those found culpable would be tracked, apprehended, and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

She urged the public to disregard the rumour and rely only on verified official communication channels and social media accounts for credible information.

An undated video clip circulating online appears to show the COAS addressing a group and saying: “…youths refuse to join the Army, we will make it mandatory for everybody from 18yrs and above.”

However, it remains unclear when and under what circumstances the Army chief was speaking, who he was addressing, and the complete context of his alleged statement.

The Army reiterated that Nigeria does not operate a system of compulsory conscription, and recruitment into the armed forces remains voluntary.

For clarity, the Nigerian Army recruitment portal outlines eligibility requirements, including age limits, educational qualifications, and fitness standards, but makes no provision for mandatory enlistment.

Context of Military Recruitment in Nigeria

Nigeria’s armed forces have historically relied on voluntary enlistment, with recruitment drives conducted periodically to fill vacancies in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The process is overseen by the Ministry of Defence and subject to constitutional provisions.

Rumors of compulsory conscription have surfaced occasionally during periods of heightened insecurity, but officials have consistently denied such claims.

The Army’s latest clarification comes amid ongoing counterinsurgency operations in the North-East and anti-banditry campaigns in the North-West.

Officials maintain that recruitment remains open to qualified Nigerians who wish to serve, but insist there is no policy mandating enlistment.