The Federal Government prohibits military personnel from engaging in romantic relationships with their subordinates or the spouses of their subordinates.
Members of Nigeria’s military are explicitly banned from participating in homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and any other behaviors considered inconsistent with the values of the armed forces.
The military personnel are prohibited from engaging in body piercing, tattooing, disorderly conduct, and intoxication both during and outside of their work hours.
This guideline is outlined in Section 26 of the updated Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, which was signed by President Bola Tinubu on December 16, 2024.
“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.
“An officer must not engage in body piercing and tattooing of any part of his body. An officer shall not engage in any form of disorderly behaviour, brawl, or any action of public disgrace. An officer must not at any time be drunk whether on or off duty.”
“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 section mentions in part.
Military personnel are required to ensure that all financial obligations, such as vehicle licenses and insurance, are settled promptly. Additionally, they are not permitted to become members of secret societies or political parties.