REMOVE ARABIC INSIGNIA FROM NIGERIAN ARMY LOGO: CALLS FOR SELF-DEFENSE BY CHIEF OF DEFENSE STAFF SPARK REACTIONS

Reported by Suzan Daniel – Sele Media Africa

Fresh controversy has erupted across Nigeria over the Arabic inscription on the Nigerian Army logo, following renewed calls for its removal and wider discussions on national identity, security, and inclusiveness.

The debate was reignited during a viral TikTok Live session by Hajiya Kaltum Alumbe Jitami, a well-known Hausa rights activist. Jitami referenced recent remarks by the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, urging Nigerians to be prepared to defend themselves amid rising insecurity.

In her broadcast, Jitami argued that the Arabic phrase “Nasrunminallah”—meaning “Victory is from God alone”—carries deep historical associations with the 19th-century Sokoto Caliphate led by Usman Danfodio. She described that era as one marked by Islamic conquest and the overthrow of indigenous kingdoms, especially in the Middle Belt and Southern regions.

⁠“This emblem is not just a religious or decorative text,” Jitami said. “It represents a lingering Fulani-Islamic dominance over our national military system. It should be removed if we want to genuinely reflect unity and diversity in Nigeria.”

She further claimed that such religious symbols are exploited ideologically by extremist groups, suggesting that their removal would strip such groups of symbolic legitimacy.

Jitami’s statements have stirred reactions online, with citizens divided over whether the logo’s Arabic phrase is religiously or historically appropriate for a secular, multi-ethnic nation like Nigeria. Supporters of her view argue that in a country of over 250 ethnic groups and multiple faiths, no language or religion should dominate national emblems.

Critics, however, maintain that the phrase is simply a historical remnant with no modern religious or political implications, and caution against revising national symbols based on emotional or political pressure.

The Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official response to the growing calls for reform.