Odita Sunday 
NAF Holds Seminar on Civilian Harm Mitigation for Strategic-Level Officers
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Service to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of civilians during military operations.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the opening of a seminar on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response for Strategic-Level Officers, Gabkwet described the gathering as the first of its kind in the NAF and a major step towards strengthening institutional capacity on civilian protection during operations.
According to him, the seminar brought together military, paramilitary, and civilian stakeholders to deepen understanding of civilian harm mitigation principles and improve collaboration in operational environments where civilian presence is unavoidable.
He noted that modern military operations require a careful balance between operational success and humanitarian considerations, particularly in asymmetric conflict environments where terrorists and criminal elements deliberately exploit civilian spaces.
The Air Vice Marshal stated that NAF personnel continue to confront threats such as terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other criminal activities across various theatres of operation.
“In addressing these threats, we recognize that operational success is not defined solely by tactical gains, but by our ability to conduct operations with precision, discipline, restraint, and utmost regard for the safety, dignity, and well-being of civilians,” he said.
Gabkwet explained that the Nigerian Air Force had continued to institutionalize civilian harm mitigation and response within its operational planning and execution processes through the establishment of relevant departments and doctrinal centres.
He added that the seminar was designed to equip senior officers with strategic-level knowledge and practical tools for informed decision-making during air operations.
“The core objective of this seminar is to enhance civilian harm mitigation and response capabilities, deepen institutional awareness, and empower senior leadership with practical frameworks for balanced, objective, and timely decisions in air operations,” he stated.
He further emphasized that civilian harm mitigation should be seen as a strategic enabler of operational effectiveness rather than an impediment.
Gabkwet expressed appreciation to the Chief of the Air Staff for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the contributions of resource persons and partners, including Dr. Larry Lewis, Dr. Lewis Njoku of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), and Dr. Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission.
He also commended representatives of sister services, civil society organizations, and the media for their participation and support.
The seminar is expected to strengthen institutional accountability mechanisms and improve operational effectiveness through enhanced civilian protection frameworks.
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