Senate Moves to Prohibit Enlistment of Under-18s Into Nigerian Military

The Senate has taken a decisive step toward banning the recruitment of persons under the age of 18 into the Nigerian Armed Forces, following the passage of the Armed Forces (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2025 for second reading.

The proposed restriction aligns Nigeria with the Child Rights Act (2003), the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, all of which prohibit the recruitment of minors into armed conflict.

Sponsored by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (Katsina Central), the bill seeks to repeal the current Armed Forces Act of 2004 and replace it with a more constitutionally compliant, modern, and operationally efficient framework.

‘Long overdue reform’ — Yar’Adua

Leading the debate, Senator Yar’Adua described the reform as essential for bringing Nigeria’s military laws in line with democratic standards.

“Our Armed Forces are a symbol of national unity and pride, but the laws guiding them have not evolved at the same pace as our democracy. This Bill rebuilds the military’s legal foundation to reflect justice, professionalism, and respect for human rights,” he said.

Key Reforms in the Bill

The bill introduces several significant changes, including:

1. Prohibition of child enlistment

No person under 18 will be legally permitted to join the military.

2. Expanded definition of military offences

The reform broadens the list of punishable military offences and introduces more proportionate penalties.

3. Stronger courts-martial independence

Interference by senior officers in court-martial proceedings will now be criminalized—preventing abuse of power.

4. Legal representation for the Armed Forces

For the first time, legally qualified military officers will be allowed to represent the Armed Forces in civil courts. A dedicated litigation fund will also be created.

5. Updated penalty system

Outdated fines — some as low as ?200 and ?500 — will be replaced with percentage-based penalties tied to an offender’s salary, ensuring economic relevance and deterrence.

6. Clearer chain of command

The bill strengthens civilian control by placing day-to-day operational command under the Chief of Defence Staff, acting under presidential authority, in line with Section 218 of the Constitution.
This eliminates ambiguity and reinforces the principle of civilian supremacy over the military.

Next Steps

The legislation has been referred to the Senate Joint Committee on Army, Navy, and Air Force, which is expected to submit its report within four weeks.