By Victor Akaa
In a significant move to enhance civil-military relations and protect civilian lives, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has unveiled its groundbreaking Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP).
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director Public Relations and Information NAF disclosed this in a statement, noting that the pragmatic plan was launched on May 20, 2025, during the NAF’s 61st Anniversary celebrations in Abuja.
The anniversary celebrations, 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.
According to the statement the CHMRAP is a bold initiative aimed at reducing the scale and impact of harm to civilians during air operations.
Speaking during the event, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said “This policy framework 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.”
The CAS emphasised the NAF’s commitment to democratic ideals, stating, “The NAF remains firmly apolitical and deeply committed to the rule of law, transparency, and respect for fundamental human rights.”
He highlighted the importance of national security being a shared responsibility, saying, “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.”
The CAS expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support, particularly in acquiring modern air platforms including AH-1Z attack helicopters and M-346 fighter aircraft that will enhance mission precision and minimise civilian harm during operations.
The unveiling of the CHMRAP was accompanied by a seminar featuring keynote addresses and lectures from prominent experts.
Professor Usman Tar, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, delivered a keynote address on behalf of the Executive Governor of Borno State, while Professor Usman Istifanus Zabadi and Air Vice Marshal Olatokunbo Adesanya (Retired) presented thought-provoking lectures on building trust and cooperation in civil-military relations.
Enugu Reporters reports that the NAF’s commitment to protecting civilians and promoting civil-military relations is a significant step towards achieving sustainable peace and security in Nigeria.
According to the statement, the CHMRAP is expected to play a crucial role in guiding the NAF’s operations and ensuring that the rights and dignity of civilians are respected especially as the country continues to face security challenges.
The NAF’s new plan is expected to enhance the military’s operational effectiveness while minimising harm to civilians.
