A Committee has been instituted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to investigate reported cases of accidental air strikes on civilian population.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, said the committee which was constituted by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal OIadayo Amao, will compile all allegations of air strikes on civilians and review the circumstances leading to the strikes.
Amao spoke at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Air Operations Seminar holding at Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Thursday October 27.
He said the probe will profer “far-reaching measures that would mitigate future incidences of collateral damages on civilians during Nigerian Air Force (NAF) operations”.
“The investigation further aims at promoting accountability, allow the NAF to learn valuable lessons in order to avoid or mitigate similar cases in the future as well as take extra measures to minimize civilians harm and casualties in conflict areas.
“The efforts to mitigate civilian casualties are not just a reflection of NAF values as a Service, but also strategically imperative to our operations,”
On Nigeria’s security challenges, he noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria has made significant gains in curtailing and degrading the resources and capabilities of miscreants that seek to destabilise the nation.
While congratulating 17 young pilots Amao implored them to be prepared for the arduous task ahead.
“There is no better way to launch you into your operational flying career than to have you draw from the rich operational experiences of seasoned pilots who will be discussing germane issues relevant to air operations,” he said.
