Nigeria’s military issues new directive on personal conduct, banning homosexuality, cross-dressing, and other acts

Nigeria’s military personnel now subject to strict new code of conduct

In a move aimed at reinforcing the ethics of the Nigerian Armed Forces, military personnel have been expressly prohibited from engaging in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and other activities deemed contrary to military values. The newly revised guidelines, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024, also outlaw body piercing, tattooing, disorderly behavior, and drunkenness both on and off duty.

A copy of the revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, obtained by our correspondent, lays out these prohibitions under Section 26. Among the stipulations, it is stated that officers must not participate in any activities related to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and other identities associated with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, nor engage in cross-dressing. Additionally, officers are barred from possessing tattoos or piercings, as well as participating in behavior that could bring public disgrace or disrupt order. The directive also mandates that personnel remain sober both during official duties and in their private time.

Another key aspect of the revised conditions addresses relationships, explicitly forbidding officers from engaging in any romantic or sexual relationships with subordinates or their spouses. The document further includes a requirement that military personnel maintain timely payment of legal financial obligations, such as vehicle insurance and licensing, and prohibits membership in secret societies or political parties. Officers are also barred from using government property for personal gain or operating private businesses that could interfere with their official duties.

While the revised terms establish clear expectations for military conduct, the document does not outline specific punishments or disciplinary actions for violations of these rules. The new regulations are set to reshape the personal and professional lives of Nigerian military personnel as the country seeks to uphold military discipline and ethics.