Nigerian Air Force Reaffirms Priority On Civilian Safety In Operations, With United States Capacity Support
Reinforcing its doctrine of responsible and precise air power, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) hosted a delegation of US experts on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) this week. The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, emphasised that the collaboration forms a critical component of the NAF’s operational ethics and professional evolution. In his address, Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation for the growing partnership, noting that cooperation between both sides has progressed from concept to measurable institutional gains. He highlighted US-supported gains, including the NAF’s CHMR Action Plan, a dedicated Department at the Air Warfare Centre, standardised CHMR training, strengthened assessment and investigation team capabilities, and enhanced strategic communication with NAF Public Relations.
The CAS further informed the delegation of his endorsement of the upcoming programme at the Air Force War College, Makurdi, a step he described as vital to internalising civilian harm awareness among future commanders. He reiterated that since assuming office, he has consistently directed that the civilian environment be factored into all planning and operational decisions. This, he stressed, reflects both a moral obligation and a strategic necessity for legitimacy, public trust and mission success.
Reaffirming the Service’s commitment, Air Marshal Aneke noted that the NAF will continue to deepen and strengthen this partnership as part of its broader investment in CHMR capacity development and the preservation of civilian life in conflict settings. The Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet maintained that sustained cooperation with international partners remains key to advancing operational accountability and enhancing responsible air power employment.
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