The Nigerian Armed Forces have introduced a new regulation barring military officers from marrying foreigners or naturalised Nigerians, in a move aimed at safeguarding national security and classified information.
The directive, contained in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024, was signed by the President and approved by the Armed Forces Council in December 2024.
It mandates that officers obtain prior approval and undergo a thorough vetting process before marriage.
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According to Chapter 25, Subsection 5 of the document, “no officer is allowed to marry a foreigner or a naturalised Nigerian.” The policy also prohibits commissioned officers from marrying non-commissioned personnel, such as soldiers, ratings, or airwomen.
Additionally, newly commissioned officers are barred from marrying during their probation period, while those already married before commissioning are required to reside in the Officers’ Mess for at least three months before qualifying for married accommodation.
A retired Major General defended the policy, stating it was designed to prevent possible security breaches and divided loyalty, especially during international conflicts.
However, not everyone supports the move. Retired Group Captain Shehu Sadeeq urged a review of the policy, arguing that countries like the United States and the United Kingdom permit such unions under strict vetting. He warned that a total ban may violate officers’ personal rights.
Human rights activist Dr. Zikirullahi Ibrahim also criticised the rule as discriminatory, questioning why public officials and politicians with dual citizenship are not subjected to similar restrictions.
In contrast, Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), endorsed the new policy, maintaining that those responsible for the nation’s defence must put national interest above personal relationships.
The HTACOS 2024, which replaces the 2017 version, will remain in effect for five years before undergoing a fresh review.
