By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection of civilians following reports of alleged casualties arising from an air operation conducted in Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
In a statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, the Air Force said it had taken note of claims that non-combatants may have been affected during the operation carried out on January 25, 2026. The Service described the reported loss of lives and injuries as grave, expressing deep concern for all those impacted.
The NAF stressed that safeguarding innocent lives remains a core element of its operational doctrine, noting that civilian protection measures are integrated into every stage of its missions.
According to the statement, the Air Force has over the past year consistently implemented its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP), which includes strengthened training, procedures and safeguards designed to minimise harm to non-combatants during operations.
In response to the reported incident, the NAF disclosed that it has activated a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team to carry out an immediate and comprehensive investigation.
The Service assured Nigerians that the inquiry would be guided by accountability, responsibility and transparency, pledging to take appropriate action where necessary and implement improvements to prevent future occurrences.
The Air Force also reiterated its resolve to continue defending the nation with professionalism, restraint and respect for the trust placed in it by the Nigerian people.
