Abuja, Nigeria – Nigeria’s military personnel are now expressly prohibited from engaging in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and other activities 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 16 December 2024.
A copy of the revised conditions obtained on Saturday detailed the prohibited acts, stating, “An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, and bestiality. He/she is not to belong to, or engage in activities of the LGBTQIA2S+ group and cross-dressing, amongst others.”
In addition to these, military personnel are barred from body piercing, tattooing, disorderly behaviour, drunkenness, and amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. The document emphasised that personnel are to avoid any action that could lead to public disgrace.
Furthermore, officers are required to meet financial obligations promptly, including vehicle licences and insurance payments. Membership in secret societies or political parties is also strictly forbidden. The document clarified that traditional cultural or religious societies are exempt from the prohibition on secret societies.
The guidelines also prohibit personnel from engaging in private businesses or misusing government property for personal gain. Officers are not permitted to accept gifts, favours, or entertainment from subordinates or juniors in rank.
Although the conditions explicitly outline the prohibited acts, the document does not specify the penalties for violators.
These revisions aim to reinforce discipline and ethical conduct within the armed forces, aligning personnel behaviour with the military’s professional standards.