NAF Probes Fatal Airstrike in Niger That Harmed Civilians, Including Children

‎…“NAF acknowledges the gravity of the reported loss of lives and injuries and conveys its deep concern for all affected,

‎ABUJA, NIGERIA- The iNews Times | Nigeria Air Force ( NAF )has deployed an investigation team following reports that a military aircraft, during an anti-bandit operation in Niger State, killed two residents and injured six others in Kurigi community.

‎Residents reported that a military surveillance helicopter hovered over the community for several minutes on Sunday before firing.

A source reported that gunfire hit residents while they were inside their homes.

‎One resident, Suleiman Sanusi, stated that the attack has increased fear in the community, prompting many people to flee to Bangi town and other safer areas.

‎Sanusi described the incident as sudden and unprovoked, urging authorities to investigate immediately and provide medical care to the injured.

Reacting to the development yesterday, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, said investigation into the incident was in line with the Nigeria air force principles of accountability, responsibility, and transparency.

‎He assured Nigerians of NAF’s unwavering resolve to take responsibility where required, implement necessary improvements and safeguard innocent lives.

The Nigeria air force spokesman, who disclosed this in a statement, titled “NAF Reaffirms Commitment to Civilian Protection Following Reported Incident in Kurigi, Niger State,’’ said:  “The Nigerian Air Force, NAF, has noted reports alleging civilian casualties, following air operations conducted on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Kurigi Village, Kontokoro District, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

‎“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.

Over the past year, NAF has consistently implemented its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response – Action Plan (CHMR-AP), integrating civilian protection considerations across all operational phases and enhancing training, procedures, and safeguards to minimize harm.

‎In line with this commitment, NAF has deployed a Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation (CHAI) team to conduct an immediate and thorough investigation into the reported incident.

Guided by the principles of accountability, responsibility, and transparency, NAF reassures Nigerians of its steadfast commitment to take responsibility where necessary, implement required improvements, and protect innocent lives, all while continuing to defend the nation with professionalism, restraint, and respect for the trust placed in it by the Nigerian people.