Nigeria’s military personnel have been explicitly prohibited from engaging in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and other acts deemed contrary to the ethics of the armed forces.
This directive is outlined in Section 26 of the revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024.
The updated guidelines also bar personnel from body piercing, tattooing, drunkenness (on or off duty), and disorderly behavior. A copy of the document, obtained by Punch on Saturday, detailed these restrictions:
“An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, or bestiality. He/she is not to belong to or engage in activities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) group, or cross-dressing, among others.
“An officer must not engage in body piercing or tattooing of any part of their body. An officer shall not engage in any form of disorderly behavior, brawl, or any action of public disgrace. An officer must not, at any time, be drunk, whether on or off duty,” the document stated.
Naija News reported that the conditions of service further forbid personnel from engaging in amorous relationships with subordinates or the spouses of fellow officers and soldiers.
“An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier, rating, airman, airwoman, or the spouse of a fellow officer, soldier, rating, airman, or airwoman,” it stated.
Military personnel are also required to meet financial obligations promptly, including vehicle licensing and insurance. Failure to comply is considered a serious offence.
“An officer shall pay all just financial obligations in a proper and timely manner, especially those imposed by law and mutual contract. It is a very serious offence for an officer to be apprehended for failure to license or insure their vehicle,” the rules emphasized.
Restrictions on Secret Societies, Political Activity, and Private Business
The revised rules prohibit membership in secret societies or political parties. Officers are also warned against participation in any related activities, even in observatory capacities.
“An officer shall not hold membership in any secret society or political party. They shall not participate, in any way, in activities associated with such societies or parties, even in observatory capacities,” the document read.
Military personnel are also forbidden from operating private businesses or misusing government property for personal gain. Accepting gifts, favors, or entertainment from subordinates is similarly restricted.
“An officer shall not engage in private business. They shall not use or allow the use of government property, their name, position, or connections in any way related to commercial enterprises outside their employment. Activities, with or without compensation, that interfere or have the potential to interfere with their official duties are prohibited,” it added.
While the document extensively lists prohibited activities, it does not specify the disciplinary measures or punishments for personnel who violate these rules.