Nigerian military personnel are now expressly prohibited from engaging in acts such as homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, cross-dressing, and other behaviors deemed contrary to the ethics of the armed forces, following a directive approved by President Bola Tinubu.
The revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service (HAFTCOS), signed by the President on December 16, 2024, outlines these prohibitions in Section 26. The document was obtained on Saturday and highlights strict behavioral and ethical standards for military officers.
It states:
“An officer must not engage in homosexuality, lesbianism, or bestiality. He/she is not to belong to or participate in activities of LGBTQIA2S+ groups or engage in cross-dressing, among others. An officer must not engage in body piercing or tattooing of any part of the body.”
Additionally, officers are banned from disorderly conduct, drunkenness on or off duty, and amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses. The document specifies:
“An officer shall not engage in any amorous relationship with any soldier/rating/airman/airwoman or the spouse of fellow personnel.”
Other key directives include the timely payment of financial obligations, such as vehicle licenses and insurance, and a prohibition against joining secret societies or political parties. Misuse of government property for personal gain, engaging in private businesses, or accepting gifts from juniors is also strictly forbidden.
The document further stresses that officers must avoid actions that could discredit the armed forces, noting:
“An officer shall not use or allow the use of government property, position, or connections for personal or commercial enterprises that interfere with official duties or harm the reputation of the Service.”
While the revised code of conduct provides comprehensive guidelines, it does not detail the penalties for violations, leaving disciplinary measures unspecified.
These changes reflect the Nigerian military’s commitment to enforcing discipline and maintaining ethical standards within its ranks.
