Matawalle Reiterates Ban on Unauthorised Camouflage Use Amidst Security Concerns
In response to the prevailing security challenges in the nation, Dr. Bello Matawalle, the Honorable Minister of State for Defense, has underscored the prohibition of unauthorised military camouflage usage. He clarified that, by law, on the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force, during joint operations with the Military, are permitted to utilise military camouflage.
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This reaffirmation comes as criminal elements exploit military disguises to instigate chaos within society. Dr. Matawalle emphasised that “the current circumstances do not permit the use of military camouflage by unauthorised individuals. There is need to curb criminal activities facilitated by such disguises.”
The Minister stressed the necessity to streamline authorised personnel using military camouflage, citing the government’s ban on other para-military agencies as a measure to restore order and counter criminal endeavors.
In alignment with the directive from the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Nigeria Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police are poised to enforce the immediate cessation of camouflage uniform use by para-military agencies.
The circular, titled “Observation on Proliferation in the Use of Camouflage Uniforms by Other Security Agencies in Nigeria,” mandates agencies such as the Nigeria Immigration Service, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps, and the Federal Fire Service to discontinue the use of camouflage uniforms.
The Defense Minister emphasised the ongoing ban on the use of camouflage uniforms by security agencies, except for the Nigerian Police Force, which may use them solely during joint operations with the Military.
The enforcement of this ban is deemed crucial in addressing security concerns and countering the perceived proliferation of camouflage uniforms in the country.
Dr. Matawalle underscored the significance of distinguishing authorised personnel from potential criminals, asserting that the enforcement of existing laws governing camouflage uniform use in Nigeria will be rigorously implemented to enhance national security.
Matawalle Reiterates Ban on Unauthorised Camouflage Use Amidst Security Concerns