By Ademola Adekusibe | October 23, 2025
The House of Representatives on Tuesday deliberated on a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, 2004, to strengthen the command structure, enhance operational efficiency, and improve 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,” is sponsored by Hon. Aminu Balele, Midala Usman, and Hon. Daniel Asama.
While leading debate on the general principles of the bill, Hon. Usman said the amendment aims to clarify the roles, responsibilities, and command structure of the Armed Forces to ensure better coordination and discipline.
He added that the bill is essential to modernising the nation’s military laws in line with constitutional provisions and global standards.
The proposed amendment also seeks to define the functions of the Armed Forces Council, the Minister of Defence, and the Service Chiefs, while reinforcing the command authority of the Chief of Defence Staff and ensuring effective civilian oversight.
