Chukwu Obinna 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Nigerian Senate has passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, paving the way for a comprehensive reform of military administration and operational structure.
Sponsored by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC–Ekiti Central), the bill aims to align Nigeria’s defence law with modern security realities, improve discipline, and enhance the welfare of service personnel.
Presenting the lead debate on Thursday, Bamidele said the current Act, originally enacted in 1993, no longer reflects today’s challenges, including terrorism, cyber warfare, and peacekeeping obligations.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria require a legal framework that supports technological innovation, intelligence-led operations, and robust accountability,” he stated.
The amendment seeks to redefine the roles of the service chiefs, strengthen civilian oversight, and harmonise the functions of military tribunals. It also proposes better integration of gender and human rights principles into military conduct.
Senators expressed broad bipartisan support, noting that the reform could professionalise the armed forces and improve morale among troops battling insurgency and banditry.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio referred the bill to the Committee on Defence, chaired by Senator Ahmad Lawan, for further legislative scrutiny. The committee is expected to report back in four weeks.
Security analysts say the review marks the most significant step toward defence modernisation in over three decades, with potential ripple effects across regional peacekeeping efforts.
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