Nigerian military personnel have been explicitly banned from engaging in acts such as homosexuality, cross-dressing, bestiality, and other behaviours considered unethical under newly revised regulations.
The updated rules also prohibit tattooing, body piercing, disorderly behavior, and drunkenness, whether on or off duty.
The revised Harmonized Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024, outlines these prohibitions.
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A copy of the document states, “An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, and bestiality. He/she is not to belong to, or engage in activities of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender or Trans, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) group and cross-dressing, amongst others.”
Additionally, the directive bans military personnel from tattooing and piercing any part of their bodies, engaging in public brawls, or being intoxicated while on or off duty.
The conditions also address inappropriate relationships within the ranks, forbidding officers from forming amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. “An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier/rating/airman/airwoman, fellow officer’s or soldier’s/rating’s/airmen’s/air women’s spouse,” the document states.
Other notable rules include timely payment of financial obligations such as vehicle licenses and insurance, a ban on joining secret societies or political parties, and restrictions on private business ventures. Officers are also warned against misusing government property or accepting gifts and favors from juniors.
“An officer shall not engage in private business… or use government property, his name, position, and connection in ways that interfere with his official duties or bring discredit to the service,” the document further states.
While the revised code outlines strict behavioural standards, the disciplinary measures for those found violating these rules were not specified.