The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has issued a strong denial regarding a malicious video circulating online that falsely claims the military intends to forcefully recruit young Nigerians.
Fake Video Circulates with False Claims
In an official statement released on 23 November 2025, the Director of Defence Information, Brigadier-General Samaila Uba, clarified that a video attributing a statement to the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, is completely fabricated. Uba described the video as not only fake but also a cloned creation designed to spread disinformation.
The fraudulent video suggested an intent by the Nigerian Armed Forces to forcefully recruit citizens from the age of 18 against their will. Brigadier-General Uba was quick to label this content as fake and malicious, aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the military and its leadership.
Military Reaffirms its Noble Profession
In his rebuttal, Uba emphasized that the military remains a noble profession. He highlighted that thousands of patriotic Nigerians are always ready to willingly join its ranks, a fact proven during various recruitment exercises for the Nigerian Army, the Nigerian Air Force, and the Nigerian Navy.
He stated unequivocally that the purported statement was never made by the Chief of Defence Staff, any of the Service Chiefs, or any member of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The release was a clear attempt to defame the character of the CDS and portray the military in a negative light.
A Call for Vigilance in the Age of AI
Brigadier-General Uba used the opportunity to warn the public about the dangers of disinformation in the modern era. "In this age of Artificial Intelligence, disinformation and malinformation, it is important that care is taken by all to avoid the creation and sharing of fake statements and videos without clearly verifying their source and authenticity," he advised.
He reminded citizens that all authentic statements from the Chief of Defence Staff are released exclusively through verified Defence Headquarters spokespersons and their official social media handles. The public is therefore kindly requested to disregard the fake video and statement in circulation and always seek information from official sources.
