By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to deploying airpower with precision, compassion, and accountability, as it intensifies efforts to integrate Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) principles into mission planning and execution across all operational theatres.
This renewed focus, in line with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, underscores the Force’s determination to strengthen the human dimension of its operations and ensure that every mission protects rather than endangers civilian lives.
As part of this drive, the NAF recently held 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 foster stronger trust between the military and host communities.
In an official statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that during the engagements, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, represented by Air Commodore Elisha Bindul highlighted the importance of the recently reviewed NAF Civil-Military Relations Policy. He noted that the policy strategically positions Civilian Harm Mitigation and Gender Mainstreaming as essential pillars of air operations.
According to him, the NAF’s operational philosophy now reflects a deliberate shift toward “smarter airpower” an approach that balances precision strikes with restraint, situational awareness, and respect for human life. “Our responsibility goes beyond defending Nigeria’s airspace,” he said. “It also includes building trust, promoting peace, and fostering cooperation with communities that host our operations.”
Personnel were therefore urged to demonstrate professionalism, discipline, and compassion in their interactions with civilians, as such values are critical to mission success and long-term peace in conflict zones.
The interactive sessions provided a platform for officers to share field experiences, identify challenges, and exchange best practices. Deliberations centred on community engagement, inter-agency coordination, conflict resolution, and adherence to Rules of Engagement (ROE). Participants were reminded of the NAF’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual exploitation and abuse, with emphasis on lawful conduct and respect for human dignity as cornerstones of the Force’s operational credibility.
Air Commodore Ejodame further revealed that the NAF’s humanitarian outreach programmes have already benefited over 2,000 civilians across various host communities. These initiatives, he said, have earned commendation from international partners for advancing operational awareness and reinforcing military-community relations.
Also speaking during the sessions, the CCMR representative disclosed that plans are underway to implement a series of Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) across selected communities under the broader Civil-Military Cooperation framework. Unit CMR Desk Officers were directed to sustain continuous training and awareness campaigns on Civilian Harm Mitigation and other humanitarian principles.
In his remarks during the engagement in Maiduguri, the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore Umar Idris, emphasized that effective community relations remain a strategic advantage in counter-insurgency operations. He noted that coordinated, lawful, and humane conduct not only strengthens the NAF’s tactical effectiveness but also enhances its moral authority in the field.
