By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
In a decisive move to enhance operational accountability and civilian protection, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has inaugurated a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) Board, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to align military operations with international humanitarian standards.
The CHMR Board will spearhead the implementation of the NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation Action Plan (CHMR-AP), a comprehensive framework designed to institutionalise the protection of civilians in conflict zones while reinforcing public trust and transparency.
Speaking during the board’s inaugural meeting, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to conducting operations with accountability, precision, and compassion.
“We remain resolute in ensuring our missions uphold the highest standards of humanity and professionalism.
“Embedding civilian protection into the core of our air power doctrine is not only strategic but essential to the legitimacy of our operations, He said
The CHMR Board will be responsible for coordinating the implementation of the action plan across all levels of the NAF, including within joint operational theatres.
Additionally, it's mandate includes identifying and documenting civilian harm incidents, assessing operational impacts, and analysing data gathered from internal combat assessments, partner nations, civil society groups, non-governmental organisations, and open-source intelligence.
However, the board will work closely with the NAF Civilian Harm Assessment and Investigation Cell to identify patterns and trends in civilian casualties, derive lessons learned, and monitor progress in mitigating future harm.
Describing the initiative as a “critical institutional step,” Air Marshal Abubakar stressed the moral imperative behind the board’s creation.
"Every innocent life matters. As we confront evolving security threats across the country, our use of air power must always be guided by precision, ethics, and accountability.
He further noted that the CHMR Board forms part of a broader transformation agenda within the NAF, aimed at modernising operational approaches while maintaining strict adherence to humanitarian principles.
“By institutionalising harm mitigation, we aim to reduce civilian casualties and foster stronger public confidence in our operations.
The board’s inauguration signals a new phase of reform in the Nigerian Air Force, positioning civilian protection as a central pillar in mission planning and execution, and reinforcing the force’s commitment to responsible and accountable military engagement.
