The House of Representatives on Tuesday began deliberations on a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, 2004, to strengthen the command structure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance accountability within the military.
The proposed legislation, titled: “A bill for an Act to amend the Armed Forces Act, 2004, and for related matters,” was sponsored by Rep. Aminu Balele, Rep. Midala Usman, and Rep. Daniel Asama.
Leading debate on the general principles of the bill, Rep. Usman said the amendment aims to clarify the roles, responsibilities, and command structure of the Armed Forces to ensure 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.
“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,” he said.
Rep. Usman explained that the proposed amendment seeks to promote operational efficiency, constitutional compliance, and enhanced accountability within the military.
“The proposed amendments will enhance the operational efficiency of the Armed Forces by clarifying roles and responsibilities.
“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,” he stated.
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Highlighting key provisions, he said the bill reaffirms 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 to ensure that the president’s authority is maintained,” he explained.
Concluding his presentation, Rep. Usman urged his colleagues to support the bill for a second reading, describing it as a vital 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.”
