NAF Expresses Concern, Probes Alleged Civilian Casualties in Niger Airstrikes
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has expressed concern over reports of alleged civilian casualties following air operations carried out on January 25, 2026, in Kurigi Village, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF acknowledged the gravity of the reported loss of lives and injuries, stressing that the protection of civilians remains a core principle guiding all air operations.
To establish the facts, the Air Force has activated a Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame(CHAI) team to conduct an immediate and thorough probe into the incident.
Read Also:
The NAF said the investigation would be guided by accountability, transparency and responsibility, with assurances that appropriate action would be taken where necessary.
The Air Force noted that it has consistently applied its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response–Action Plan (CHMR-AP), which embeds civilian protection measures into all phases of air operations.
While continuing to support ongoing efforts to combat insecurity across the country, the NAF emphasised that it remains resolute in balancing its constitutional duty to defend the nation with the obligation to protect civilians and maintain public trust.
Reaffirming its commitment to professionalism and restraint, the NAF said it remains determined to defend the nation while safeguarding innocent lives and maintaining public trust.
By PRNigeria
