The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, said it has unveiled its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, CHMRAP.
According to the statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, he said the unveiling took place during the flagship seminar of the NAF’s 61st Anniversary celebrations, held at the NAF Officers’ Mess and Suites, Kado, Abuja.
According to the statement, the seminar, themed “Optimizing Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations,” underscored the imperative of integrating humanitarian considerations into air operations, particularly in asymmetric warfare settings where the risk to civilian populations is elevated.
In his remarks, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, described the CHMRAP as a bold and unprecedented initiative, noting that it is the first of its kind within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
“This policy framework,” he said, “is designed to guide our efforts in reducing the scale and impact of harm to civilians during air operations. It formalises our operational values of precision, accountability, and restraint.”
Reaffirming the Air Force’s loyalty to democratic ideals, the CAS stated: “The NAF remains firmly apolitical and deeply committed to the rule of law, transparency, and respect for fundamental human rights.
“This unwavering allegiance to constitutional governance reflects our enduring dedication to protecting the sovereignty and unity of our nation.” he said
Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted that the citizenry remained the most valued partner in the nation’s security architecture, adding that “National security is a shared responsibility,.
“This action plan is our pledge to continue earning the trust of the Nigerian people by conducting our operations with compassion, responsibility, and respect for human life.”
He expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his continued support, particularly in the acquisition of modern air platforms such as the AH-1Z attack helicopters and M-346 fighter aircraft.
These platforms, he noted, will enhance mission precision and further minimise civilian harm during operations.
