The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to strengthen the operational capacity of its officers as part of measures aimed at reducing civilian casualties during air operations across the country.
The move comes amid concerns over the deaths of civilians in communities located near terrorist and bandit enclaves in parts of Northern Nigeria, with rights groups calling for stronger safeguards to protect non-combatants during military operations.
Speaking at the Seminar on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response for Strategic Level Officers at NAF Headquarters in Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, said the Air Force remained committed to conducting professional and people-centred operations while ensuring the protection of civilians.
According to him, the NAF has continued to implement specialised training and capacity-building programmes designed to improve officers’ skills in targeting, intelligence assessment and the application of rules of engagement.
He said the initiative was intended to enhance the precision of air missions, minimise collateral damage and strengthen public confidence in military operations.
“As an institution, we recognize that maintaining the confidence of the civilian population is essential to achieving lasting security outcomes. Consequently, the Nigerian Air Force has continued to take deliberate steps towards institutionalising civilian harm mitigation and response mechanisms, particularly at the tactical and operational levels,” Aneke said.
He noted that incidents arising from military operations, whether verified or alleged, had underscored the need for stronger institutional understanding and application of civilian harm mitigation principles.
“More importantly, they have far-reaching implications for public trust, legitimacy, and our relationship with the communities we serve,” he added.
The Chief of the Air Staff stressed that success in modern military operations should not be measured solely by tactical achievements but also by the extent to which civilian lives and property are protected.
He acknowledged the complexities of contemporary military operations, noting that decisions are often taken under intense pressure.
“The operational environment is inherently dynamic and unpredictable. Decisions are often made under intense pressure, and despite our best efforts, outcomes may not always align with expectations.
“What is important, however, is our willingness to reflect, to learn, and to continuously improve. We must strengthen our processes for planning, target verification, operational assessment, and post-action review. Where lapses occur, we must address them with professionalism, honesty, and a commitment to accountability,” he said.
Aneke expressed confidence that the seminar would provide a platform for discussions, knowledge sharing and the exchange of best practices, adding that the lessons learned must translate into practical measures that strengthen operational conduct and civilian protection.
Linus Aleke
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