Reps okay bill to amend Armed Forces Act for second reading

From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja

The House of Representatives has passed for second reading, a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004.

The bill, which is sponsored by Aminu Balele , Midala Usman and Daniel Asama, is aimed at strengthening the command structure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Usman, while leading debate on the general principles of the bill, said the proposed legislation 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 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.

“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.”

The lawmaker explained that the bill reaffirms the President 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.

Usman noted that “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.

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

“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.”