The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) commitment to protecting civilian lives and avoiding collateral damage during military operations.
Aneke made the pledge on Thursday at his first meeting with Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, and senior officers at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja.
He emphasized that the directive aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s expectations for the armed forces, stressing that the Air Force under his leadership will focus on operational efficiency, safety, and professionalism.
“We will continue to work closely with sister services and other security agencies to root out terrorism, eliminate threats, and deny safe haven to all adversaries of our nation,” he said.
The Air Chief noted that the force would strengthen civil-military relations by engaging local communities and ensuring that its operations remain people-focused.
“Protecting civilian lives and preventing collateral damage will remain a defining hallmark of our professionalism and operational discipline,” he added.
Aneke explained that the strategic meeting aimed to assess the Air Force’s current operational posture, identify gaps, and implement measures to enhance its effectiveness.
He also told the officers that their appointments were based on merit, competence, and operational needs.
Reaffirming his commitment to President Tinubu’s directives, the Air Chief said every decision of the leadership would revolve around operational excellence and the safety of Nigerians.
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“The aspirations of millions of Nigerians rest, in part, on what we do here — on how effectively we carry out our duties and safeguard the territorial integrity of our country.
Let me be clear: we will not disappoint them. The president’s directives will be implemented to the letter. The time for action is now — and we will deliver,” he stated.
Aneke also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the confidence reposed in him and declared the strategic meeting open.
The assurance comes amid growing public concern over past incidents of accidental airstrikes during counter-terrorism missions, which claimed civilian lives.
With this renewed commitment, the Air Force aims to strengthen professionalism and rebuild public trust in its operations.