The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to strengthen training and institutional capacity in International Humanitarian Law (IHL) as part of efforts to enhance professionalism and accountability in military operations.
The agreement was formalised on March 11, 2026, in Abuja when the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, received the Head of Delegation of the ICRC, James Matthews, at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force.
Speaking during the meeting, Air Marshal Aneke described the MoU as a strategic milestone that reinforces the Air Force’s commitment to professionalism, accountability and adherence to global ethical standards in the conduct of air operations, particularly within ongoing counter-insurgency engagements.
According to him, the collaboration will support the institutionalisation of IHL training across NAF operational and training establishments, enabling the development of a pool of qualified legal advisers while strengthening awareness of lawful engagement among pilots, commanders, intelligence personnel and other officers.
He explained that integrating humanitarian principles into operational planning will enhance precision targeting, improve measures aimed at mitigating civilian harm and further refine the effectiveness of air power in neutralising terrorist threats.
The Chief of the Air Staff added that the approach would strengthen the Air Force’s capacity to apply decisive force against hostile elements while ensuring the protection of innocent citizens and critical civilian infrastructure.
In his remarks, Matthews commended the Nigerian Air Force for its proactive efforts to embed International Humanitarian Law into its doctrine, training and operational practices, noting that such initiatives contribute to more effective and accountable security operations.
He reaffirmed the ICRC’s readiness to provide technical expertise and capacity-building support aimed at strengthening sustainable in-house competencies within the Air Force.
Both leaders expressed confidence that the partnership would enhance operational professionalism, facilitate humanitarian access where necessary and contribute to ongoing efforts to restore stability and security in affected regions.
