The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced an investigation into reports of alleged civilian casualties arising from an air interdiction operation carried out on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement on Monday, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team has been activated to conduct an immediate and comprehensive assessment of the incident.
Ejodame said the Air Force recognises the gravity of the reported loss of lives and injuries and expressed deep concern for all those affected, reaffirming that the protection of civilians and non-combatants remains a core principle guiding NAF operations.
According to him, the NAF has consistently implemented its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP) over the past year, integrating civilian protection considerations into all stages of operational planning and execution.
He added that the framework has been strengthened through enhanced training, refined procedures and additional safeguards aimed at minimising the risk of harm to innocent populations during military operations.
“In line with our commitment to accountability and transparency, the CHAI team will thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the operation,” the statement said. “Where lapses are identified, appropriate responsibility will be taken, corrective measures implemented and lessons applied to prevent a recurrence.”
The Air Force assured Nigerians of its determination to balance operational effectiveness with restraint and professionalism, while upholding public trust as it continues to defend the nation.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) reiterated that all military operations across the country are conducted in strict adherence to the rules of engagement, international humanitarian law and respect for human rights.
Speaking on recent security operations, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), working closely with other security agencies, remain committed to intelligence-driven and joint operations aimed at dismantling terrorist, insurgent, bandit and other criminal networks.
Despite the complex security environment, Onoja said the troops have continued to record notable successes through precision strikes, clearance operations and sustained patrols across multiple theatres.
“These coordinated efforts have led to the disruption of criminal networks, recovery of arms and ammunition, rescue of abducted victims and gradual restoration of normalcy in several affected communities,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of public engagement, describing the media as strategic partners in national security efforts, and urged professionalism and restraint in reporting sensitive operational matters.
By Linus Aleke
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