Group President Commends Court for Striking Down 15-Year Compulsory Service Rule for Soldiers
Abuja|TEC News|6th September, 2025
The National President , National Interest Network (NIN), H.E Da-Silva Johnson has applauded the judgment of the National Industrial Court, Abuja, which nullified the 15-year compulsory service rule for officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Justice Emmanuel Subilim had ruled that the provision in the Harmonized Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) was unconstitutional, oppressive, and a violation of the rights of personnel, while validating the resignation of Flight Lieutenant J.A. Akerele of the Nigerian Air Force.
In a statement released on saturday, the group’s National President described the ruling as “a bold affirmation that no institution or policy can override the rights of citizens guaranteed by the Constitution,” stressing that military personnel deserve both respect for their service and dignity as citizens.
He urged the Ministry of Defence to immediately review policies that contradict constitutional provisions, noting that the judgment sets a precedent for reforms that align the Armed Forces with democratic values and justice.
National Interest Network is a Civil Society Organization (CSO) with concern for national development and advocacy group.