Reps move to amend Armed Forces act to strengthen command structure, accountability

The House of Representatives on Tuesday began deliberation on a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, to strengthen the command structure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The bill titled “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004; and for Related Matters,” Sponsored by Hon Aminu Balele , Hon Midala Usman and
Hon Daniel Asama.

Rep Maidala Usman while leading the debate on the general principles of the bill said that the proposed legislation aims to “clarify the roles, responsibilities, and command structure of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, ensuring effective coordination, discipline, and operational efficiency.”

He reminded lawmakers that the bill was first read on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, adding that its passage was crucial to modernising Nigeria’s military laws in line with constitutional provisions and global best practices.

According to him, “The primary objectives of this Bill are to clarify the composition, command, and operational responsibilities of the Armed Forces; delineate the functions of the Forces Council, the Minister of Defence, and the Service Chiefs; reinforce the command authority of the Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs; and ensure effective civilian oversight while maintaining the constitutional command structure.”

Explaining the rationale behind the amendment, the lawmaker stated that the proposed changes will promote operational efficiency, constitutional compliance, civilian oversight, and enhanced accountability in the military.

“The proposed amendments will enhance the operational efficiency of the Armed Forces by clarifying roles and responsibilities,” he said. “It also ensures that the Armed Forces Act aligns with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, while maintaining the distinction between civilian and military roles.”

On key provisions, he noted that the bill seeks to reaffirm the President’s role as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, with the Chief of Defence Staff exercising “general superintendence” over the military’s command and coordination.

“The Bill delineates the roles and responsibilities of the Forces Council, the Minister of Defence, and the Service Chiefs, while clarifying the delegation of operational use of the Armed Forces, ensuring that the President’s authority is maintained,” he explained.

Concluding his presentation, he appealed to members to support the bill for second reading, saying it is a necessary reform to strengthen Nigeria’s defence architecture.

“The proposed amendment to the Armed Forces Act is essential for enhancing the operational efficiency, accountability, and effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” he said.

“I therefore urge my respected colleagues to support that this Bill be read for the second time and referred to the relevant committee for further legislative action.”