Nigerian Military Bans Officers From Marrying Foreigners, Naturalised Citizens

In a sweeping policy shift, the Nigerian Armed Forces have introduced a new rule barring commissioned officers from marrying foreigners or naturalised Nigerians. The restriction, contained in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) 2024, was approved by the Armed Forces Council and signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in December 2024.

The directive, which demands strict compliance across all service branches, also prohibits officers from marrying non-commissioned personnel such as soldiers, ratings, or airwomen. Additionally, officers must secure official approval and pass background vetting before marriage.

According to Chapter 25, Subsection 5 of the new document, “no officer is allowed to marry a foreigner or a naturalised Nigerian.” Newly commissioned officers are further barred from marrying during their probation period. Those already married before commissioning are required to reside in the Officers’ Mess for at least three months before qualifying for married accommodation.

Military authorities describe the policy as a security safeguard designed to prevent conflicts of loyalty and protect sensitive national information. A retired Major General explained that “marriage to a foreigner could pose a risk of divided allegiance if Nigeria finds itself in conflict with that person’s country.”

Yet, the decision has sparked a national debate. 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 security clearance. “An outright ban is excessive and infringes on personal freedoms,” he said.

Human rights advocate Dr. Zikirullahi Ibrahim echoed this sentiment, calling the rule discriminatory. He questioned why similar standards are not applied to politicians and senior officials who hold dual citizenship. “If loyalty is the issue, it should be measured by conduct, not by whom one marries,” he maintained.

However, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, backed the military’s decision. He contended that officers entrusted with national security must put the country’s interest above personal desires.

The HTACOS 2024 replaces the 2017 version and will remain in force for five years before the next review.