By Tola Gbadamosi

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has visited Zamfara State to meet victims and families affected by a recent airstrike, acknowledging responsibility for the tragic incident and expressing deep regret.

He assured the people of Zamfara that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) remains committed to protecting all Nigerians and preventing a recurrence.

He also met Governor Dauda Lawal, reaffirming the Air Force’s dedication to safeguarding lives and working closely with state authorities to tackle security challenges.

The airstrike, which occurred on 11 January in Dangebe Village, Maradun Local Government Area, was based on intelligence reports indicating the movement of suspected terrorists on motorcycles.

However, subsequent findings revealed that 11 members of a local vigilante group returning from an operation against terrorists were mistakenly killed, while 11 others sustained injuries.

The CAS explained that upon learning of the incident, he immediately deployed a fact-finding team to assess the situation.

He reiterated that while the NAF’s mission is to neutralise threats, it does not take civilian casualties lightly and is taking steps to improve precision in future operations.

To provide redress, Air Marshal Abubakar announced financial support for the families of the deceased, the reconstruction of damaged structures, and the replacement of two motorcycles destroyed in the airstrike.

He also directed the provision of a solar-powered borehole in Kambarawa Village to support the affected community and neighbouring settlements.

Furthermore, he highlighted the NAF’s new Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (NAF CHMR-AP), designed to enhance operational accuracy, improve assessments, and ensure better response mechanisms when civilian casualties occur.

He assured that the initiative would refine the Air Force’s approach to security operations and reduce the risk of similar tragedies.

Governor Lawal commended the CAS for taking responsibility and for the proactive measures to assist affected families.

In a significant move to strengthen security collaboration, he presented the NAF with a Certificate of Occupancy for land near Gusau Airport, where a new Air Force base will be established.

The visit signals the NAF’s commitment to accountability, operational improvements, and community engagement as it continues efforts to restore peace in Zamfara and the broader North-West region.