ARMY COLOUR (PROHIBITION OF USE) ACT

An Act prohibits the unauthorized use of army colours and insignia by civilians and entities. It targets individuals and businesses that misuse military symbols. This protects the integrity of official military emblems.

What Is This Policy?

An Act prohibiting the unauthorised use of army colours (flags and insignia of military units) by civilians or non-authorised bodies to prevent impersonation and protect military symbols.

Who Does It Target?

Civilians who might misuse military insignia Commercial entities using military-style colours Nigeria Army and Ministry of Defence Law enforcement agencies enforcing the prohibition

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Protect the integrity of Nigeria Army regimental and unit colours as official military symbols, preventing their exploitation for commercial, political, or criminal purposes.

Key Features

Prohibition: Bans the display, use, or reproduction of army colours without authorisation. Criminal Penalties: Prescribes fines and imprisonment for persons who violate the prohibition. Authorised Use: Only the Nigeria Army and officially authorised entities may display army colours. Enforcement: Military Police and civilian Police may enforce the prohibition.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Nationwide Beneficiaries: Military honour; public order Funding: Federal Government

How to Access

Do not reproduce or display army colours without Nigerian Army authorisation Commercial use requires specific written permission from the Nigerian Army Application method: Apply for authorisation to Nigerian Army Headquarters.

Important Terms

Unauthorised use for commercial gain attracts higher penalties Use in mockery of the military is treated as the most serious violation The prohibition extends to digital reproduction

Official Resources

Website: https://www.army.mil.ng Contact: Nigerian Army Headquarters

Legal Framework

Enacted under the legislative powers of the National Assembly vested by Section 4 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Operates alongside the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 LFN 2004), the Criminal Code Act on impersonation offences, and the Flags and Coat of Arms Act. Implementation is overseen by the Nigerian Army, with enforcement through military and civilian law enforcement agencies.