NIGERIA BANS MILITARY PERSONNEL FROM HOMOSEXUALITY, CROSSDRESSING, OTHERS

The Nigerian military has introduced strict regulations prohibiting personnel from engaging in activities deemed contrary to the ethics of the service. These include homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and other behaviors considered inappropriate.¹

The new directive, signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024, outlines detailed prohibitions aimed at reinforcing discipline within the military. Military personnel are also barred from body piercing, tattooing, drunkenness, disorderly conduct, and other forms of public misconduct.

The revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service (HAFCTCS) explicitly states that officers must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, or cross-dressing. They are also prohibited from belonging to or engaging in activities related to the LGBTQIA2S+ group.

Additionally, military personnel are forbidden from entering into amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. They are also obligated to fulfill financial obligations, such as vehicle licensing and insurance, on time. Failure to do so is considered a serious offense.

Other prohibited activities include joining secret societies or political parties, engaging in private businesses, and misusing government property for personal gain. Military personnel are also restricted from accepting gifts or favors from subordinates.²

The new regulations aim to maintain professional boundaries and discipline within the military. However, the document does not specify the disciplinary measures for violations, sparking questions about how these rules will be enforced in practice.

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