NAF Unveils Framework to Safeguard Civilians in Military Operation
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP), a first-of-its-kind framework in the history of Nigeria’s Armed Forces.
This move aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and embedding humanitarian considerations into military operations.
The initiative, unveiled on Monday during the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st Anniversary seminar in Abuja, signals a new era of accountability and restraint in air operations, especially in asymmetrical conflict zones where civilian safety remains a critical concern.
Speaking at the event, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, described the CHMRAP as a bold and visionary policy.
“This policy framework is designed to guide our efforts in reducing the scale and impact of harm to civilians during air operations. It formalises our operational values of precision, accountability, and restraint,” he stated.
Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the initiative reflects the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to democratic governance, human rights, and rule of law.
“The NAF remains firmly apolitical and deeply committed to the rule of law, transparency, and respect for fundamental human rights,” he said. “This action plan is our pledge to continue earning the trust of the Nigerian people by conducting our operations with compassion, responsibility, and respect for human life.”
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Highlighting the crucial role of citizens in national security, the Air Chief stressed that “national security is a shared responsibility,” and reiterated the NAF’s goal of building enduring trust with the civilian population.
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, particularly in the acquisition of new air platforms like the AH-1Z attack helicopters and M-346 fighter aircraft, which he said would enhance mission precision and further reduce the risk of collateral damage in combat situations.
The seminar, themed “Optimizing Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations,” provided a platform for deep dialogue on the integration of humanitarian standards in military operations.
Delivering the keynote address on behalf of Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, the State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Professor Usman Tar, commended the NAF for its commitment to protecting civilian lives in conflict-prone regions like the North East.
The event also featured thought-provoking lectures on topics such as “Building Trust and Cooperation for Sustainable Civil-Military Relations” and “Civil-Military Relations and Operational Effectiveness: NAF Operations in Perspective,” delivered by Professor Usman Istifanus Zabadi and Air Vice Marshal Olatokunbo Adesanya (Retired), respectively.
By PRNigeria
