The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Air Force will prioritise the protection of civilian lives and avoid collateral damage during ongoing and future military operations.
Aneke gave the assurance on Thursday during his first strategic meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and senior commanders at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
He said the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s expectations for the Armed Forces, noting that the Air Force under his leadership would emphasise operational efficiency, safety, and professional conduct.
“Protecting civilian lives and preventing collateral damage will remain a defining hallmark of our professionalism,” Aneke said.
“We will continue to collaborate with sister services and other security agencies to root out terrorism, eliminate threats, and deny safe havens to those who seek to destabilise our nation.”
He added that strengthening civil-military relations would be central to ongoing reforms, stressing the importance of engaging affected communities to build trust and cooperation.
According to him, the meeting was convened to review the force’s current structure, identify operational gaps and refine strategies to boost effectiveness.
Aneke further stated that all senior officers in key positions were selected strictly on merit and competence, in line with the operational priorities of the service.
“The aspirations of millions of Nigerians rest, in part, on how effectively we carry out our duties and safeguard the territorial integrity of our country,” he said.
“Mr President has given clear and express directives. Those directives will be implemented to the letter. The time for action is now — and we will deliver.”
His remarks come amid public concerns following past incidents in which accidental airstrikes during counter-terrorism missions resulted in civilian deaths. Civil society organisations have consistently called for stronger safeguards and accountability mechanisms.
Aneke’s pledge signals a shift toward more precision-driven, community-sensitive air operations aimed at restoring public confidence in the military.
He expressed his appreciation to President Tinubu for the trust placed in him and formally declared the strategic session open.
