The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians while sustaining intense operational pressure on terrorist groups across Nigeria. Speaking during the inauguration of the Basic Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) Course 1/2026 at the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) in Abuja, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said ongoing joint military operations have significantly restricted the operational freedom of terrorist elements.
The Civilian Harm Mitigation training is designed to equip personnel with the knowledge and judgement needed to integrate civilian protection into operational planning, intelligence analysis, targeting processes, and mission execution. Participants will deepen their understanding of International Humanitarian Law, Rules of Engagement, and positive target identification, all aimed at minimizing civilian harm during air operations.
The training underscores the NAF’s commitment to upholding international best practices and minimizing harm to civilians. The course has 26 participants, including pilots, UAV operators, air component commanders, legal advisers, and civil-military relations officers .
