In a significant step toward aligning Nigeria’s military laws with modern democratic and human rights standards, the Senate has advanced a bill seeking to prohibit the enlistment of anyone under 18 years of age into the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The proposed legislation, titled the Armed Forces (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2025, scaled second reading on the floor of the upper chamber on Wednesday.
It aims to replace the existing Armed Forces Act of 2004 with an entirely new legal framework that reflects current constitutional values, international obligations, and evolving security realities.
Sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (Katsina Central), the bill seeks to outlaw the recruitment of minors and bring Nigeria’s military regulations in line with the Child Rights Act, 2003, as well as international treaties such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
A Long-Overdue Overhaul
Presenting the bill, Senator Yar’Adua described the reform as “long overdue,” noting that the current Armed Forces Act still carries the imprint of military-era decrees that no longer reflect Nigeria’s democratic ideals.
“Our armed forces remain a pillar of unity and national pride, yet the legal instruments guiding them have not evolved in tandem with our democracy,” Yar’Adua said.
“This legislation seeks to rebuild the military’s legal foundation on the principles of justice, professionalism, and respect for human rights.”
Key Reforms Proposed
The bill introduces several far-reaching reforms designed to promote discipline, accountability, and fairness within the military establishment. Among its key provisions are:
* A broader and updated definition of military offences to address emerging security challenges.
* The introduction of proportionate punishments for disciplinary breaches.
* Stronger protection for the independence of courts-martial, including criminal penalties for superior officers who attempt to influence judicial proceedings.
Lawmakers commended the inclusion of the latter provision, describing it as a vital safeguard against abuse of authority and a necessary step to ensure impartial military justice.
Next Legislative Steps
Following its successful second reading, the bill has been referred to the appropriate Senate committee for detailed consideration. The committee will review the provisions and present its report for a third reading and possible passage.
If enacted and assented to by the President, the Armed Forces (Repeal and Re-enactment) Act, 2025 would represent one of the most comprehensive reforms in Nigeria’s military history—modernizing recruitment standards, enhancing human rights protections, and strengthening internal discipline across the armed forces.
