Court Allows Nigerian Military Personnel to Resign Without 15-Year Rule

The National Industrial Court in Abuja has ruled that Nigerian military personnel have the constitutional right to resign without completing the mandatory 15-year service rule. The judgment, delivered on September 2, 2025, by Justice Emmanuel Subilim, declared the policy compelling military personnel to serve a minimum of 15 years before resigning as unconstitutional.

The case was filed by human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong on behalf of Flight Lieutenant J. Akerele, who faced obstacles in seeking voluntary disengagement after experiencing career setbacks and emotional distress.

The ruling emphasized that the mandatory service clause in the Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service (HTACOS) was oppressive and unconstitutional, affirming the personnel's right to resign at any time.