Protect civilian lives, prevent collateral damage, CAS tells NAF commanders
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has tasked operational commanders to protect civilian lives and prevent collateral damage during air interdiction missions against terrorists in all parts of the country.
He gave the directive during his maiden strategic meeting with Branch Chiefs and Air Officers Commanding, held at NAF Headquarters, Abuja, on 6 November 2025
Air Marshal Aneke added that actionable frameworks had been developed to ensure measurable operational results and mission success.
Reassuring Nigerians of the NAF’s continued cooperation with sister services and security agencies, Air Marshal Aneke affirmed that “protecting civilian lives and preventing collateral damage will remain a defining hallmark of our professionalism.
The CAS reaffirmed commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness, professionalism, and safety across all NAF formations.
He said the meeting was convened to deliberate on key operational and administrative issues, assess current challenges, and develop pragmatic, result-oriented strategies to strengthen air power delivery in support of national security.
The CAS described the session as a vital platform to “refocus, realign, and reposition the Nigerian Air Force for greater impact,” adding that “the aspirations of millions of Nigerians rest, in part, on how effectively we carry out our duties.”
Air Marshal Aneke, therefore, emphasized that his administration would be anchored on professionalism, discipline, and clarity of purpose, with operations and safety serving as the twin pillars of his command philosophy.
He assured that every policy and resource allocation would be driven by these priorities and supported by robust logistics, cutting-edge technology, and efficient administration.
“This is about putting square pegs in square holes,” he stated. “The Nigerian Air Force needs leaders who can deliver, and I believe we have assembled the right team to take us to the next level.”
The CAS further reiterated his determination to implement the directives of the President and Commander-in-Chief “to the letter,” stressing that “the time for action is now, and we will deliver.”
The meeting featured frank and solution-driven deliberations focused on refining NAF’s strategic direction and operational posture.
The CAS encouraged open and candid contributions under the Chatham House Rule, noting that “everyone was heard, and every contribution was geared toward achieving practical outcomes.”
He also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his confidence and leadership, pledging that the NAF would remain steadfast in realizing the President’s vision for a secure and prosperous Nigeria.
