NAF Adopts Intelligence-driven Operations, Pledges Minimal Collateral Damage

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has said that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is prioritizing smarter, intelligence-driven operations that achieve maximum operational impact with minimal collateral risk.

He said, “In today’s complex security environment, operational success is no longer defined solely by kinetic dominance, but by our ability to build trust, foster cooperation, and integrate the human dimension into air operations.”

Air Marshal Aneke spoke at the Civil-Military Relations Conference 2026, organized by the Civil-Military Relations branch of NAF, with the theme: “Leveraging Civil-Military Relations for Enhanced Operational Efficiency,” on Tuesday in Abuja.

He stated that the NAF has deliberately repositioned civil–military relations as a key operational enabler through enhanced community engagement, institutionalised feedback mechanisms, and strengthened strategic communication across operational theatres.

He said these initiatives are designed to ensure that NAF operations remain effective, responsible, and transparent.

The Air Chief noted that in demonstration the Service’s commitment to accountability and compassion, the Service approved compensation for victims of the accidental airstrike in Sokoto, as well as the execution of Special Intervention Projects in Kwara, Rivers, Delta, Kano, and Akwa Ibom States, including medical outreaches and infrastructure support, which have further strengthened public trust and cooperation.

“We recognize that the strength of our engagement with civil populations directly impacts missions’ outcomes. Guided by this philosophy, we have enhanced our community engagement framework, institutionalized feedback mechanisms, and strengthened strategic communication channels across operational tiers.

“These deliberate measures ensure that our actions are not only precise, but also responsible, transparent, and aligned with the expectations of the Nigerian people.

Air Marshal Aneke said that the NAF has continued to imbibe non-kinetic and kinetic approach, where strategic communications, psychological operations, and community engagement are deliberately integrated into operational plans.

“When citizens trust us, they become a force multiplier, providing physical intelligence and strengthening our moral effectiveness,” he said.

The NAF chief described the conference as “timely and strategic,” and commended the Chief of Civil Military Relations and his team for their professionalism and dedication in advancing this critical period.

He said the conference seamlessly align with his command philosophy, which he said emphasizes a professional, agile, and people-centric air force, driven by precision, accountability, and strategic effectiveness.

The CAS charged participants to generate practical, actionable recommendations that would further enhance the NAF’s Civil-Military initiatives gears towards upholding the highest standards of human dignity.

The Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabwet, said that the Civil-Military Relations Branch has recorded some major achievements under the current Chief of Air Staff.

“These achievements include the articulation of the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan to enhance Nigerian Air Force’s efforts at mitigating and responding to civilian harm resulting from air operations, establishment of the Civilian Harm Mitigation Department at the Air Warfare and Doctrine Center, and a digital platform designed to enable civilians and personnel to lodge complaints through a confidential and streamlined process,” he said.