Thursday, January 29, 2026 - The Nigerian Air Force has launched an investigation into reports of civilian casualties following an air operation on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District of Mariga Local Government Area, Niger State.
In a statement on Wednesday, NAF spokesman, Air Commodore
Ehimen Ejodame, described the allegations as grave and expressed deep concern
for those affected, stressing that the protection of non-combatants remains
central to the service’s operational conduct.
“The Nigerian Air Force has noted reports alleging civilian
casualties following air operations conducted on Sunday, 25 January 2026, in
Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger
State. The NAF acknowledges the gravity of the reported loss of lives and
injuries and conveys its deep concern for all affected, while reaffirming that
the protection of non-combatants remains central to its operational conduct,”
Ejodame said.
He explained that the Air Force has activated a Civilian
Harm Accident and Investigation team to conduct an immediate and comprehensive
probe into the incident, guided by the principles of accountability,
responsibility, and transparency.
“Over the past year, the NAF has consistently applied its
Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response – Action Plan, embedding civilian
protection considerations into all phases of operations while strengthening
training, procedures, and safeguards aimed at minimising harm. In line with
this commitment, the NAF has activated a Civilian Harm Accident and
Investigation team to commence an immediate and comprehensive investigation
into the reported incident,” Ejodame said.
He assured Nigerians that the Air Force would take
responsibility where necessary and implement corrective measures based on the
findings of the investigation.
“The NAF assures Nigerians of its unwavering resolve to take
responsibility where required, implement necessary improvements, and safeguard
innocent lives, while continuing to defend the nation with professionalism,
restraint, and respect for the trust placed in it by the Nigerian people,”
Ejodame added.
The Air Force has been conducting sustained operations in
parts of Niger State to support ground troops in tackling banditry and other
security threats. Over recent years, the military has strengthened civilian
protection frameworks, including the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response –
Action Plan, following concerns about civilian casualties during
counter-insurgency and internal security operations.
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