The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal OIadayo Amao, has said that a Committee has been instituted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to investigate reported cases of accidental air strikes on civilian population.

In a statement, the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, Amao, said the Committee will compile all allegations of air strikes on civilians and review the circumstances leading to the strikes.

He said the probe was with “a view to proffering far-reaching measures that would mitigate future incidences of collateral damages on civilians during Nigerian Air Force (NAF) operations”.

The Air Force Chief, stated this at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Air Operations Seminar holding at Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Thursday.

Amao noted that “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”

While congratulating 17  pilots winged as highlight during the opening ceremony of the Seminar, Amao, implored them to be prepared for the arduous task ahead noting that, 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 reminded the new pilots to “always adhere to laid down Rules of Engagement while also taking all necessary steps to protect civilians and minimize civilian casualties during operations”.

He said “the efforts to mitigate civilian casualties are not just a reflection of NAF values as a Service, but also strategically imperative to our operations.”

Source: TheNation