The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has reiterated the prohibition on the unauthorized use of military camouflage, emphasizing that only the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force are permitted by law to utilize military camouflage during joint operations.

In a statement released by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the Defence Ministry, Henshaw Ogubike, the Minister’s directive comes in response to the increasing incidents of criminals exploiting military and para-military attire to engage in unlawful activities across the country.

The ban on the use of military camouflage by other para-military agencies aims to restore orderliness to the system and curb criminal activities, according to the statement. However, an exception is made for the Nigerian Police Force, which may utilize military camouflage only during joint operations with the military.

Matawalle emphasized the importance of enforcing the ban in light of security concerns and the need to address issues related to duplication and proliferation within the country.