The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on 15 September 2026 hosted a delegation from Amnesty International Nigeria for an engagement focused on the protection of civilians during military air operations.
The engagement formed part of Amnesty International’s ongoing research, providing an opportunity for constructive dialogue and exchange of information on issues relating to civilian protection.
The Executive Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Mr Isa Sanusi, appreciated the NAF for facilitating the engagement and acknowledged the Service’s efforts to mitigate harm to civilians during operations.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, stated that the NAF recognises credible human rights and civil society organisations as important stakeholders in promoting accountability, transparency and adherence to international best practices.
He noted that Civilian Harm Mitigation is embedded in NAF doctrine and incorporated into the planning and conduct of air operations, which are guided by applicable provisions of International Humanitarian Law, the Laws of Armed Conflict, Standard Operating Procedures and approved Rules of Engagement.
The engagement underscored the importance of sustained dialogue, transparency and continuous improvement in strengthening public confidence.
Both parties agreed to maintain constructive engagement, while the NAF reiterated its commitment to protecting civilian lives in the course of its operations and to working with credible stakeholders in support of its constitutional mandate to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and national security.