President Bola Tinubu has approved a ban on homosexuality, lesbianism, beastiality, cross-dressing, and other behaviours deemed contrary to the ethics of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
The directive is outlined in Section 26 of the revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, signed by the president on December 16, 2024.
According to the document, personnel are prohibited from engaging in activities associated with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community. Body piercing and tattooing are also forbidden.
It read in part, “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.”
Additionally, the guidelines prohibit disorderly behaviour, drunkenness on or off duty, and public disgrace. Officers are also warned against involvement in amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses.
The revised document, however, does not specify penalties for violations of these rules.
