The Nigerian Army has defended its operations against insurgents and armed gangs in the country’s north and central regions, stressing efforts to minimise civilian harm despite recent incidents of mistaken targeting.
Defence Chief of Staff General Christopher Musa acknowledged that some airstrikes in the northwest had inadvertently hit civilians while pursuing criminal groups, but said such cases are being investigated.
He noted that the military often halts or aborts missions to avoid civilian casualties, a decision that can undermine tactical advantages and prolong the conflict.
Musa called for a review of international laws that, he argued, restrict state forces while non-state actors continue to operate freely among civilian populations.
He highlighted ongoing training for Nigerian troops in human rights and international humanitarian law, both domestically and abroad, as part of efforts to improve conduct in conflict zones.
His remarks follow increased scrutiny from rights groups accusing the military of excessive force, amid growing insecurity fuelled by Islamist insurgents and criminal gangs embedded within communities.
