The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is intensifying its efforts to protect civilian lives in operational theatres nationwide, aligning with its evolving doctrine of “smarter, more humane, and accountable airpower.”
In line with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, the NAF has stepped up the integration of Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) principles into mission planning and execution across all theatres of operation.
The initiative underscores the Force’s renewed commitment to precision, empathy, and operational responsibility in the conduct of air operations.
As part of this drive, the NAF recently conducted Civil-Military Relations (CMR) engagements with personnel in Maiduguri, Enugu, and Bayelsa States. The sessions focused on enhancing operational precision, fostering community trust, and ensuring that air missions protect rather than endanger civilian lives.
Speaking at the engagements, the Chief of Civil Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, represented by Air Commodore Elisha Bindul, stated that the reviewed NAF CMR Policy identifies Civilian Harm Mitigation and Gender Mainstreaming as key pillars of modern air operations.
According to him, this reflects a deliberate shift toward “smarter airpower” one that balances precision strikes with restraint, situational awareness, and respect for human life.
He emphasized that NAF’s mandate extends beyond defending the nation’s airspace to fostering peace, building trust, and deepening cooperation with host communities.
Personnel were urged to uphold professionalism and compassion in all engagements, as these qualities are vital to mission success and long-term stability in conflict zones.
The interactive sessions also provided a platform for participants to share field experiences and discuss operational challenges. Topics included community engagement, inter-agency coordination, conflict resolution, and adherence to Rules of Engagement (ROE). Officers were further reminded of the Force’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, as respect for human dignity remains central to operational credibility.
Highlighting the NAF’s continued investment in Civil-Military Cooperation, AVM Daramola recalled the Force’s humanitarian programmes that have impacted more than 2,000 civilians in host communities efforts that have drawn commendation from international partners for strengthening military-community relations.
He further disclosed that plans are underway to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in select communities nationwide, under the broader Civil-Military Cooperation framework. Unit CMR Desk Officers were also directed to sustain awareness campaigns and continuous training on civilian protection and humanitarian considerations.
In his remarks during the Maiduguri engagement, the Air Component Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore Umar Idris, reaffirmed that strong community relations remain a strategic advantage in counter-insurgency operations.
He stressed that lawful, coordinated, and humane conduct sustains both tactical and moral superiority in the field.
Through such initiatives, the Nigerian Air Force continues to demonstrate that precision airpower is as much about moral clarity as it is about targeting accuracy ensuring that every mission advances peace, safeguards civilians, and contributes to lasting national and regional stability.