The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to embed Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) principles into mission planning and execution across all theatres of operation, in line with the strategic vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar. The move underscores NAF’s drive to deliver smarter, more humane, and accountable airpower.
Recent Civil-Military Relations (CMR) engagements held with personnel in Maiduguri, Enugu, and Bayelsa showcased the renewed focus on operational precision, empathy in the battlespace, and the protection of civilian lives during military operations.
Speaking during the sessions, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola—represented by Air Commodore Elisha Bindul—stated that the revised NAF CMR Policy identifies Civilian Harm Mitigation and Gender Mainstreaming as key pillars of air operations. He described this as a “paradigm shift toward smarter airpower,” harmonising precision strikes with restraint, situational awareness, and respect for human life.
Personnel were urged to maintain professionalism and compassion, recognising that NAF’s mission extends beyond air defence to fostering peace, trust, and stability in host communities. Interactive sessions also explored inter-agency coordination, community engagement, conflict resolution, and adherence to the Rules of Engagement (ROE), while reinforcing NAF’s zero-tolerance stance on sexual exploitation and abuse.
Air Commodore Bindul further disclosed plans to implement Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in selected communities nationwide as part of broader humanitarian initiatives. He directed CMR Desk Officers to sustain awareness campaigns and continuous training on CHM principles.
Similarly, the Air Component Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore U. Idris, stressed that strong community relations remain a strategic asset in counter-insurgency operations, adding that lawful and humane conduct strengthens both tactical and moral superiority.
Through these initiatives, the NAF continues to demonstrate that precision airpower is not only about targeting accuracy but also about protecting lives, promoting peace, and upholding moral responsibility in the defence of Nigeria’s national and regional stability.
