The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to strengthen institutional capacity and operational compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
The agreement was formalised on March 11, 2026, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force in Abuja when the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, received the Head of Delegation of the ICRC in Nigeria, James Matthews.
Speaking during the meeting, Air Marshal Aneke described the partnership as a strategic milestone that underscores the Air Force’s commitment to professionalism, accountability and adherence to global ethical standards in the conduct of air operations, particularly in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
According to him, the collaboration will support the institutionalisation of IHL training across NAF operational and training establishments, including the development of a pool of qualified legal advisers and enhanced awareness of lawful engagement principles among pilots, commanders, intelligence personnel and other officers.
The Chief of the Air Staff noted that integrating humanitarian principles into operational planning would improve precision targeting, strengthen civilian harm mitigation measures and enhance the overall effectiveness of air power in neutralising terrorist threats. He added that the approach would enable the NAF to apply decisive force against hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians and critical infrastructure.
In his remarks, Matthews commended the Nigerian Air Force for its proactive efforts to embed International Humanitarian Law into its doctrine, training and operational practices, describing the initiative as vital to ensuring accountable and effective security operations.
He reaffirmed the ICRC’s readiness to provide technical expertise and capacity-building support aimed at developing sustainable in-house competencies within the Air Force.
Both officials expressed confidence that the partnership would enhance operational professionalism, facilitate humanitarian access where necessary and contribute to ongoing efforts to restore stability and security in conflict-affected regions of the country.
