NAF Integrates Civilian Harm Mitigation, Gender Mainstreaming into Air Operations
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its strategic efforts to embed Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) and Gender Mainstreaming principles into mission planning and execution across all theatres of operation.
This according to a statement underscore its commitment to smarter, humane, and accountable airpower.
The statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the NAF said the initiative aligns with the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, to enhance operational precision while safeguarding civilian lives during combat operations.
According to the him, the NAF recently conducted Civil-Military Relations (CMR) engagements with its personnel in Maiduguri, Enugu, and Bayelsa, aimed at deepening empathy in the battlespace, improving community relations, and ensuring that every mission strengthens—rather than endangers—civilian protection.
During the engagements, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, represented by Air Commodore Elisha Bindul, explained that the recently reviewed NAF CMR Policy now positions Civilian Harm Mitigation and Gender Mainstreaming as vital pillars of modern air operations.
He noted that this reflects a deliberate shift towards “smarter airpower”, balancing precision strikes with restraint, situational awareness, and respect for human life.
He reminded personnel that the NAF’s mandate extends beyond defending Nigeria’s airspace, emphasizing the importance of building trust, promoting peace, and fostering cooperation within host communities.
Read Also:
He urged officers and airmen to uphold professionalism, empathy, and compassion in all interactions with civilians, noting that these values are essential for mission success and long-term stability in conflict zones.
The interactive sessions provided a platform for participants to share field experiences, discuss operational challenges, and exchange best practices on community engagement, inter-agency coordination, and adherence to Rules of Engagement (ROE). Personnel were also reminded of the Service’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual exploitation and abuse, stressing that lawful conduct and respect for human dignity remain central to NAF’s operational credibility.
Highlighting NAF’s commitment to Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC), the CCMR representative disclosed that plans are underway to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in selected communities across the country. These projects are designed to enhance mutual trust between security forces and civilians through humanitarian outreach and social support.
In his remarks during the Maiduguri session, the Air Component Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore Umar Idris, emphasized that strong community relations and humane conduct are strategic advantages in counter-insurgency operations.
He said that coordinated, lawful, and compassionate engagement with civilians not only sustains tactical superiority but also reinforces the moral legitimacy of the military campaign.
Through these initiatives, the Nigerian Air Force continues to demonstrate that precision airpower is not only about accuracy in targeting but also about moral clarity—ensuring that every mission advances peace, protects civilians, and strengthens both national and regional stability.
By PRNigeria
