President Tinubu’s Military Policy Shift: A Closer Look at the Ban on Homosexuality and Lesbianism

Analyzing President Tinubu’s Approval of the Ban on Homosexuality and Lesbianism in the Armed Forces

President Bola Tinubu has approved a directive prohibiting Nigerian military personnel from engaging in activities such as homosexuality, lesbianism, bestiality, and cross-dressing.

This directive is outlined in Section 26 of the revised Harmonised Armed Forces Terms and Conditions of Service, which the President signed on December 16, 2024.

The updated regulations specify that military officers must not participate in or be associated with activities related to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning, Intersex, Asexual or Agender, Two-Spirit (LGBTQIA2S+) community.

Additionally, the guidelines prohibit body piercing, tattooing, disorderly behavior, and intoxication, whether on or off duty. Officers are also forbidden from engaging in amorous relationships with subordinates or their spouses.

These measures are part of broader efforts to enforce discipline and uphold the ethical standards within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The document, however, does not specify the penalties or disciplinary actions for officers who violate these rules.

It’s important to note that Nigeria’s Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act, enacted in 2014, already criminalizes same-sex relationships nationwide.

The recent directive serves to reinforce these prohibitions specifically within the military context.

These developments have sparked discussions about human rights and the treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals within Nigeria.

International human rights organizations have previously criticized Nigeria’s stance on LGBTQ+ issues, expressing concerns over discrimination and the infringement of personal freedoms.