The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has officially launched its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP) as part of its commitment to minimizing the impact of military operations on civilian populations, particularly in complex and asymmetric conflict zones.
The unveiling took place during the flagship seminar marking the NAF’s 61st Anniversary celebrations at the NAF Officers’ Mess and Suites, Kado, Abuja.
According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the seminar was themed “Optimizing Civil-Military Relations in a Joint Operational Environment for Enhanced Air Operations.” It emphasized the growing need to integrate humanitarian safeguards into combat strategies, especially where civilian lives are most at risk.
Describing the action plan as “bold and unprecedented,” the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the initiative is the first comprehensive civilian harm mitigation framework within the Nigerian military.
“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,” Abubakar stated.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s loyalty to democratic principles and human rights, emphasizing that the NAF remains apolitical and deeply committed to the rule of law.
“National Security is a Shared Responsibility”
The Air Chief stressed that Nigerian citizens remain the most vital partners in national security. “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 said.
Air Marshal Abubakar also extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s unwavering support to the Air Force, citing the recent acquisition of modern air assets including AH-1Z attack helicopters and M-346 fighter aircraft.
“These advanced platforms will significantly enhance the precision of our missions and reduce the risk of civilian casualties,” he said.
The unveiling of CHMRAP marks a significant evolution in the Nigerian Air Force’s approach to military operations, reflecting a broader shift toward transparency, accountability, and humane engagement in warfare.
