The Senate has moved to stop the recruitment of anyone under 18 into the military as it passed the Armed Forces (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2025, for second reading. The proposed law focuses on legal compliance and aligns Nigeria’s defence system with the Child Rights Act, 2003, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Lawmakers said the update supports modern security services, youth protection, and responsible government reform.
Sponsored by Abdulaziz Yar’Adua of Katsina Central, the bill aims to repeal the Armed Forces Act, 2004, and replace it with a law that fits the constitution and today’s digital policy standards. While leading the debate, Yar’Adua said the reform was overdue because the current legislation came from a military decree that no longer reflects democratic needs or evolving national security realities.
“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.
The bill introduces wider reforms, including expanding the definition of military offences, applying proportionate punishments, and protecting courts-martial from interference by senior officers. Lawmakers said these steps will strengthen accountability, reduce abuse of power, and support a more transparent security structure.
