Nigerian Air Force Earns Global Praise For Leading Civilian Harm Mitigation Efforts

Nigerian Air Force Earns Global Praise For Leading Civilian Harm Mitigation Efforts

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has earned global commendation for its pioneering efforts in civilian harm mitigation through the development and implementation of the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response-Action Plan (CHMR-AP). The accolades were delivered during the United Nations and Tunisian Defence Forces–sponsored Conference on Protection of Civilians in Tunis, where the NAF was recognised for embedding leadership oversight, training, data collection, and strategic communications into its operational framework, setting a modern standard for air forces worldwide.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, speaking through Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Director of Cooperation and Coordination at the NAF Civil-Military Relations Branch, reiterated that protecting civilians is both a moral and constitutional obligation. He emphasized that operational effectiveness must align with humanitarian values, warning that neglecting civilian protection could lead to long-term strategic consequences. The CAS highlighted swift progress in rolling out the CHMR-AP, including the establishment of a strategic oversight board, a Civilian Harm Assessment Cell, and a dedicated department at the Air Warfare Centre to lead capacity building.

The international conference drew over 100 participants, including military leaders, UN officials, and civil society representatives. It spotlighted the NAF’s leadership in advancing civilian protection while strengthening continental resolve to embed similar frameworks across Africa. The event further reinforced the growing role of the NAF in shaping ethical, responsive, and people-centred military operations.