By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday moved swiftly to contain public concern over reports of civilian casualties following an air operation in Niger State, reaffirming that the protection of non-combatants remains non-negotiable in its conduct of military operations.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the Air Force said it had taken note of allegations that civilians were killed and injured during air operations carried out on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Kurigi village, Kontokoro District of Mariga Local Government Area.
While acknowledging the seriousness of the reported loss of lives and injuries, the NAF expressed deep concern for all affected families and communities, stressing that safeguarding innocent civilians is central to its rules of engagement.
The Air Force disclosed that it has activated a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team to conduct an immediate and comprehensive probe into the incident, as part of efforts to establish the facts surrounding the operation.
According to the statement, the investigation will be guided by the principles of accountability, responsibility and transparency, with assurances that appropriate action will be taken should lapses be identified.
The NAF also highlighted that over the past year it has strengthened safeguards to minimise harm to civilians through the consistent application of its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP).
The framework, the Air Force said, embeds civilian protection considerations into all phases of operational planning and execution, while reinforcing training, procedures and decision-making processes aimed at reducing unintended consequences during combat operations.
Reaffirming its stance, the NAF said it remains committed to taking responsibility where required and implementing necessary improvements to prevent a recurrence, without compromising its constitutional mandate to defend the nation.
“The Nigerian Air Force will continue to discharge its duties with professionalism, restraint and respect for the trust placed in it by the Nigerian people,” the statement added.
The Air Force’s response comes amid heightened public scrutiny of military operations in conflict-affected areas, as security agencies balance aggressive action against armed groups with the imperative of protecting civilian lives.
The NAF said it would keep Nigerians informed of the outcome of the investigation, underscoring that accountability and civilian safety remain at the heart of its operational ethos.
