Camouflage, better known as “camo”, has long been a staple globally. From high-fashion runways to streetwear scenes, camo jackets, pants, and accessories have remained iconic. For many youths around the world, camo represents rebellion, resilience, and rugged cool. But in Nigeria, it carries a different kind of weight, one enforced not by trends but by law.

The Style That’s Out of Bounds

In most countries, camo print is a harmless fashion statement. But in Nigeria, wearing camo is not just discouraged, it’s illegal for civilians. The Nigerian Armed Forces (Discipline) Act prohibits civilians from wearing military camouflage, with penalties ranging from seizure of the garment to arrest and fines. Over the years, there have been countless reports of young Nigerians being stopped, threatened, or assaulted for simply wearing a camo hat, backpack, or trousers.

The idea behind the law is understandable. In a country grappling with insurgency, impersonation of military personnel is a real threat. It’s worth noting that Nigeria isn’t the only country where Camo is illegal. However, in practice, enforcement here, often targets students, creatives, and ordinary citizens whose only offence is having a sense of style.

And it’s not always about full military gear. Even partial camo prints, which in other places are fashion-forward, can draw unnecessary attention from security agents in Nigeria. This has created a strange reality: an entire style category is off-limits to an entire generation, not because of any wrongdoing, but because of state-sanctioned overreach.

The Bigger Picture: Fashion vs. Fear

Camos are a part of culture. From hip-hop legends in the U.S. to grime artists in the U.K., camo has become a symbol of identity and creative resistance. Nigerian youths, arguably some of the most expressive and stylish in the world, are left out of that global fashion conversation.

And the irony? The Nigerian military is not the only one with exclusive rights to camo. Nigerian stars like Burna Boy and Rema have been spotted rocking camo during international performances. So have politicians, celebrities, and even influencers. The lines of enforcement are blurry and often unjust.

Is There a Way Forward?

Yes. But it starts with balance, clarity, and policy reform. 

1. Clearer Legal Definitions: The law should distinguish between full military regalia and fashion garments that use camo prints. A camo t-shirt bought from a thrift shop should not be treated the same as official military uniforms.
2. Permit Certain Designs: Governments in other countries have collaborated with designers to create “civilian-safe” camo patterns. Nigeria can do the same, allowing creatives and fashion houses to incorporate non-regulation patterns into their work without fear of penalty.
3. Education, Not Intimidation: Security personnel should be trained to apply discretion. Not every camo jacket is an act of impersonation. Most are just kids trying to look good.
4. Civic-Fashion Dialogue: The Nigerian fashion industry can lead public campaigns pushing for reform. By bringing military representatives, legal experts, and designers to the table, a more inclusive and secure solution can emerge.
5. Policy Review at the National Assembly: Ultimately, the laws governing civilian fashion need to reflect the times. Youth culture is not the enemy; ignorance and inconsistency in enforcement are.

It’s Time to Unclip the Wings

Nigerian youths deserve the freedom to express themselves through fashion, without fear. Camo is a symbol of boldness, confidence, and style. Denying an entire generation access to it reinforces a wider culture of suppression.

It’s time to stop clipping the wings of expression. Camos are fly, and Nigerian youths should have the right to fly and look fly too.