The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced an investigation into allegations that civilians were harmed during an air operation carried out on Sunday, January 25, 2026, in Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District of Mariga Local Government Area, Niger State.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Wednesday, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the reports were being treated with utmost seriousness, noting that the safety of civilians remains a core priority in all NAF operations.
“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 disclosed that the Air Force had immediately set in motion its Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation mechanism to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, in line with established standards of accountability 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.
The spokesman assured the public that the Air Force would act decisively on the outcome of the investigation, including accepting responsibility where warranted and introducing corrective actions to prevent future occurrences.
“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 continued to carry out sustained air operations across parts of Niger State in support of ground forces combating banditry and other security threats. In recent years, the military has expanded and reinforced civilian protection measures, including the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response – Action Plan, following concerns over civilian casualties during counter-insurgency and internal security operations.
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