NAF to Prioritise Civilian Protection, Avoid Collateral Damage — Air Chief

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Air Force will prioritise civilian safety and minimise collateral damage during its operations.

Aneke made the pledge on Thursday during his first meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and other senior officers at the Air Force Headquarters in Abuja.

He said the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s expectations for a professional and efficient military force, adding that the service will uphold operational excellence and discipline.

“We will continue to work closely with sister services and other security agencies to root out terrorism, eliminate threats, and deny safe haven to all adversaries of our nation,” he said.

The Air Chief stressed that the Air Force would strengthen civil-military relations by engaging with local communities to ensure that its operations remain people-focused.

“Protecting civilian lives and preventing collateral damage will remain a defining hallmark of our professionalism and operational discipline,” he added.

He noted that the strategic meeting was aimed at assessing the force’s current posture, identifying gaps, and reviewing strategies to enhance its operational effectiveness.

Aneke reminded senior officers that their appointments were based on merit and competence, urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them.

He said, “The aspirations of millions of Nigerians rest, in part, on what we do here on how effectively we carry out our duties and safeguard the territorial integrity of our country. Let me be clear: we will not disappoint them. Mr President has given clear and express directives, and those directives will be implemented to the letter. The time for action is now and we will deliver.”

The Air Chief expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his trust and formally declared the strategic session open.

In recent years, the Nigerian Air Force has faced criticism following incidents of accidental airstrikes that resulted in civilian casualties during counter-terrorism missions. These cases prompted calls from civil society groups and community leaders for stronger accountability and improved precision in operations.

Aneke’s statements signal a renewed commitment to precision-led, community-sensitive, and accountable air operations across the country.