NAF Compensates Sokoto Air Strike Victims, One Year After
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has handed over compensation to victims and families affected by the accidental air strike of 25 December 2024 in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.
Delivering the message of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, expressed gratitude to the Governor of Sokoto State, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for the enduring partnership between the NAF and the Government and people of the State.
He commended the Governor’s inclusive development and security initiatives under the 9-Point Smart Agenda, noting that localised efforts such as the Community Guards Corps have complemented federal operations against terrorists and bandits while strengthening civil–military cooperation.
Recounting the circumstances of the incident, the CAS explained that the air operation was conducted under Operation Fansan Yamma following intelligence on suspected terrorists transiting through the affected communities.
He said although multiple intelligence checks informed the mission, a petition received on the incident in April 2025 led to a comprehensive investigation.
“A thorough fact-finding investigation confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed and eight others sustained various degrees of injuries,” the CAS stated.
According to him, the outcome deeply saddened the Service and made it imperative to take responsibility and make amends.
He emphasised that since assuming office on 24 October 2025, Civilian Harm Mitigation has remained central to his Command Philosophy, stressing that “the Nigerian Air Force exists primarily to protect the lives and property of Nigerians. No professional military deliberately harms the very people it is sworn to defend.”
The CAS further highlighted ongoing institutional measures, including the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (NAF CHMR-AP), and reaffirmed the Service’s resolve to apply precise and purposeful force against criminal elements.
He appealed to citizens to avoid mingling or cohabiting with terrorists and bandits, warning that such associations heighten the risk of collateral damage.
Air Marshall Aneke said that the Nigerian Air Force, in concert with other security agencies, remains resolute in ending terrorism, banditry, cattle rustling, and kidnapping across Sokoto State, the North-West region, and Nigeria at large
Responding, Governor Ahmed Aliyu expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for its professionalism, transparency, and compassion, describing the compensation as a demonstration of a responsible and people-centred military.
He also commended the NAF for its sustained commitment to protecting civilians while safeguarding the nation against terrorism and banditry.
The Governor said such actions strengthen public trust and reinforce national unity.
