NAF Moves To Heal Wounds Of War, Compensates Sokoto Airstrike Victims
In modern counter-terrorism operations, winning public trust is as crucial as battlefield success, and the Nigerian Air Force has taken a notable step in that direction.
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has compensated victims and families affected by the accidental air strike of 25 December 2024 in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages of Silame Local Government Area, Sokoto State, reaffirming its commitment to civilian protection while sustaining the fight against terrorism and banditry.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, conveyed the Service’s appreciation to Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, for the warm reception and the longstanding cooperation between the state and the Nigerian Air Force.
He praised the Governor’s security initiatives under the 9-Point Smart Agenda, particularly the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps, describing them as vital complements to federal security efforts.
Governor Aliyu, in his response, commended the NAF for demonstrating responsibility and compassion, noting that the compensation exercise reflects the Service’s dedication to the protection of civilians and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Recounting the incident, the CAS explained that the air operation was conducted under Operation Fasan Yamma based on intelligence indicating the movement of suspected terrorists through the affected communities.
However, following a petition received in April 2025, a comprehensive investigation confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed, while eight others sustained injuries.
Air Marshal Aneke stressed that civilian harm mitigation remains central to his Command Philosophy, stating that the Nigerian Air Force does not deliberately target civilians.
He said the compensation was aimed at acknowledging the losses, promoting transparency and accountability, easing tensions and drawing lessons to prevent future occurrences.
The CAS further disclosed that the NAF has strengthened safeguards through its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, designed to improve operational planning, investigations and response whenever civilian harm occurs.
While reiterating the Air Force’s resolve to decisively neutralise terrorists and criminal elements, he urged citizens to avoid cohabiting with such groups, warning that such associations increase the risk of collateral damage during military operations.
The Nigerian Air Force reaffirmed its commitment, alongside other security agencies, to ending terrorism, banditry, cattle rustling and kidnapping across Sokoto State, the North-West and Nigeria as a whole.
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