Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Nigerian Senate has taken a decisive step to protect children from military recruitment, advancing the Armed Forces (Repeal and Re-enactment) Bill, 2025, to its second reading. The proposed legislation seeks to prohibit the enlistment of individuals under 18 years of age, signaling a strong commitment to align Nigeria’s armed forces with international child protection standards.
The bill aims to bring military recruitment in line with the Child Rights Act (2003), the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. Lawmakers emphasised that no child should be exposed to the risks and responsibilities of military service, reinforcing the principle that childhood must remain a protected stage of life.
If passed, the legislation would mark a significant step in safeguarding vulnerable youth, ensuring that Nigeria’s security institutions respect both national and international obligations on the welfare and rights of children.
The Senate’s action reflects growing concern about the global issue of child soldiers and reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to ending the exploitation of children in armed conflict.
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