The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has paid compensation to victims and families affected by the accidental air strike of 25 December 2024 in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, reaffirming its commitment to civilian protection and accountability in military operations.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, conveyed the CAS’s appreciation to the Executive Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for the warm reception and the sustained cooperation between the NAF and the government and people of the state. He commended the governor’s inclusive development and security initiatives under the 9-Point Smart Agenda, noting that community-based efforts such as the Community Guards Corps have complemented federal security operations while strengthening civil–military relations.
Recounting the circumstances surrounding the incident, the CAS explained that the air operation was carried out under Operation Fasan Yamma, following intelligence reports of suspected terrorists transiting through the affected communities. Despite multiple layers of intelligence verification, a petition submitted in April 2025 prompted a comprehensive investigation into the strike.
According to the CAS, the fact-finding exercise confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed, while eight others sustained varying degrees of injuries. He said the outcome deeply saddened the Service and underscored the necessity of taking responsibility and making amends. He further stressed that since assuming office on 24 October 2025, civilian harm mitigation has remained central to his command philosophy.
“The Nigerian Air Force exists primarily to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. No professional military deliberately harms the very people it is sworn to defend,” the CAS stated.
In his response, Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto expressed appreciation to the NAF for its professionalism, transparency and compassion, describing the compensation exercise as a clear demonstration of a responsible and people-centred military. He noted that such actions strengthen public confidence in the Armed Forces and reinforce national unity.
The CAS also highlighted ongoing institutional safeguards, including the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (NAF CHMR-AP), while reaffirming the Service’s resolve to apply precise and purposeful force against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements. He urged citizens to avoid associating or cohabiting with terrorists and bandits, warning that such interactions increase the risk of collateral harm during security operations.
The Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, reiterated its determination to end terrorism, banditry, cattle rustling and kidnapping across Sokoto State, the North-West region and the country at large.
