By Bavoriat Clara
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and the Government of the United States of America have restated their shared commitment to strengthening joint operational effectiveness through smarter firepower delivery and enhanced civilian protection.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the renewed commitment followed a courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, on 9 September 2025 by a delegation from the United States Institute of Security Governance, led by retired Major General Miguel Castellanos.
Air Marshal Abubakar, while welcoming the delegation, underscored the impact of the ongoing Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) programme a flagship initiative supported by the United States.
According to him, the programme has been pivotal in improving the NAF’s ability to conduct precision strikes in support of ground forces while reducing risks to civilians in conflict areas. He described it as central to achieving synergy across the Services and embedding global best practices in Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM).
> “The Air-Ground Integration programme has sharpened our capacity to deliver firepower at the right place and at the right time with precision and restraint,” the CAS remarked. “Beyond enhancing synergy, it reinforces our commitment to safeguarding civilian lives in conflict zones. The technical and advisory support provided by the United States has been instrumental in making this progress possible.”
Responding, Major General Castellanos praised the professionalism and visionary leadership of the Nigerian Air Force. He noted that Nigeria is steadily establishing itself as a regional leader in advancing Civilian Harm Mitigation and reaffirmed Washington’s resolve to sustain the partnership.
> “What we are developing together is more than operational capability, it is a system that ensures effectiveness while protecting civilian populations,” Castellanos said. “Nigeria’s leadership in embedding Civilian Harm Mitigation into military operations sets a strong example for the region, and the United States is proud to stand as a partner in this endeavour.”
Both sides agreed that the ultimate goal of the AGI programme is to institutionalise enduring joint processes across Nigeria’s Armed Forces processes that not only enhance precision targeting and inter-agency collaboration but also guarantee that humanitarian standards remain at the forefront of military operations.
The visit reaffirmed the deepening Nigeria–US security partnership, with both parties pledging to expand cooperation in precision strike capability, counter-terrorism operations, and the protection of civilian populations, all of which remain cornerstones of modern warfare and peace support operations.
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