By Nkechi Eze
In a decisive step to reinforce its people-centered operational doctrine, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the protection of civilian lives and property in all its theatres of engagement. This assurance was given during a high-level strategic engagement led by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, with frontline personnel of the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 2, operating in Nigeria’s North West region.
The engagement, which aligns with the vision of a mission-ready and people-focused NAF under the leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, was aimed at reinforcing civilian protection as a strategic imperative in ongoing counterinsurgency and counter-banditry operations.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, AVM Daramola commended the troops for their tactical successes, attributing the gains to the strategic foresight and transformational leadership of the CAS. “Every action we take must demonstrate not only tactical efficiency but also strategic empathy,” Daramola said, stressing that the enduring trust of the people is the NAF’s most potent force multiplier.
He emphasised the need for continued precision in air strikes to avoid collateral damage and sustain public confidence. “This is the people’s Air Force; we are here to protect them,” he stated, adding that community cooperation and timely intelligence were vital to the success of NAF’s operations.
The Air Component Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 2, Air Commodore Garba Ibrahim Jibia, described the visit as a morale booster for the troops, highlighting it as a strong indication of leadership support and operational oversight from the NAF Headquarters.
The strategic visit is part of broader efforts by the Nigerian Air Force to ensure that all military actions conform to international humanitarian law and uphold the principles of accountability, precision, and professional excellence. As the NAF continues to adopt a multidimensional approach to security, blending kinetic strikes with civil-military engagement, the emphasis remains firmly on protecting civilians and strengthening community partnerships in the fight against insecurity.
