NAF Reaffirms Commitment to Civilian Protection, International Humanitarian La
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reiterated its commitment to upholding international humanitarian law (IHL) and protecting civilian lives during military operations, stressing that adherence to global standards enhances operational effectiveness rather than limiting it.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, made this known at the closing ceremony of the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation training held in Abuja on Friday.
Represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, the CAS described IHL compliance as a “force multiplier” that strengthens trust with local communities, facilitates intelligence gathering, and contributes to long-term stability.
“Protecting civilian lives fosters trust and cooperation from local communities, facilitates intelligence gathering, and contributes to long-term stability,” Abubakar said. “It also strengthens Nigeria’s standing as a professional and responsible actor in the global security space.”
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As part of its commitment, the NAF earlier this year launched a Civilian Harm Mitigation Action Plan, which includes the establishment of a dedicated Department of Civilian Harm Mitigation at the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre. According to the CAS, the new department will serve as the central hub for NAF-wide training, analysis, and doctrine on civilian protection, ensuring best practices are institutionalized across all air operations.
While urging participants of the training to uphold professionalism, discipline, and accountability in the conduct of military operations, the CAS stressed that respect for human dignity defines Nigeria’s armed forces as a “force for good.” He reaffirmed that Nigeria remains committed to its obligations under the Geneva Conventions of 1949, the Hague Regulations, and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, among other international treaties.
The Civilian Harm Mitigation training, which commenced on August 11, 2025, was conducted in three batches for 69 officers. It covered key topics such as IHL in the context of Nigerian air operations, Rules of Engagement, collateral damage mitigation, positive target identification, targeting categorization, the No-Strike List (NSL), and the Sensitive Target Approval and Review (STAR) process.
In his welcome remarks, the Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre, Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekwueme, praised the CAS for entrusting the Centre with the training. He disclosed that the 69 participating officers underwent a rigorous curriculum, including practical modules on sensitive target engagement and advanced harm mitigation protocols.
The CAS commended facilitators, organizers, and participants, noting that the training would enhance the NAF’s ability to minimize civilian harm while strengthening accountability and professionalism in air operations.
By PRNigeria
