By Bavoriat Clara
In furtherance of the strategic vision of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to institutionalize Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) principles in mission planning and execution across all operational theatres. This renewed drive underscores the Service’s commitment to delivering smarter, more humane, and accountable airpower in line with global best practices.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF recently organized a series of Civil-Military Relations (CMR) engagements with personnel in Maiduguri, Enugu, and Bayelsa. The initiative aims to enhance operational precision, deepen empathy in the battlespace, and ensure that air operations safeguard—rather than endanger—civilian lives.
During the sessions, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, represented by Air Commodore Elisha Bindul, emphasized that the recently reviewed NAF Civil-Military Relations Policy places Civilian Harm Mitigation and Gender Mainstreaming at the core of air operations. He described the policy as a reflection of the Service’s deliberate transition towards “smarter airpower,” balancing precision strikes with restraint, situational awareness, and respect for human life.
Air Vice Marshal Daramola urged personnel to maintain professionalism and compassion in their dealings with civilians, noting that the NAF’s mandate extends beyond defending national airspace to fostering peace, trust, and cooperation within host communities.
The interactive engagements also provided a platform for personnel to share operational experiences, deliberate on field challenges, and exchange best practices. Discussions focused on community engagement, inter-agency coordination, conflict resolution, and strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement (ROE). Participants were reminded of the Service’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, with emphasis on lawful conduct and respect for human dignity as cornerstones of operational credibility.
Reaffirming the Service’s dedication to Civil-Military Cooperation, the NAF highlighted past humanitarian outreach programmes that positively impacted over 2,000 civilians across various communities—initiatives that have earned recognition from international partners for fostering trust and strengthening military-community relations.
In addition, the CCMR representative disclosed that the NAF is set to roll out a series of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in selected communities nationwide under its broader Civil-Military Cooperation efforts. Unit CMR Desk Officers were tasked with sustaining awareness campaigns and continuous training on Civilian Harm Mitigation and other humanitarian considerations.
Speaking during the Maiduguri session, the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore Umar Idris, reiterated that effective community relations remain a decisive factor in counter-insurgency operations. He noted that lawful, coordinated, and humane conduct not only enhances mission success but also sustains the moral high ground in conflict environments.
Through these continuous engagements and reforms, the Nigerian Air Force reaffirms that true precision in airpower extends beyond target accuracy—it encompasses moral responsibility, ensuring that every mission protects civilians, advances peace, and strengthens national and regional stability
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