By Linus Aleke, Abuja
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), has expressed commitment to strengthen its partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), to promote International Humanitarian Laws (IHL) in crisis prone areas in the country.
The Service also noted that the ICRC’s collaboration with armed forces across the world, extends to working closely with the Nigerian Air Force.
NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, in a statement, said, the international organization is advocating for the adherence to laws governing armed conflicts during hostilities.
Gabkwet, noted that the ICRC, which is renowned for its impartial and humanitarian missions worldwide, has played a pivotal role in training numerous NAF officers and enlisted personnel on IHL principles.
This, he said, is in line with the ICRC’s commitment to protecting the lives and dignity of those affected by war and internal violence.
Gabkwet further disclosed that the NAF expressed this commitment during a visit of the ICRC team, led by Mr Yann Bonzon, to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, at NAF Headquarters.
The leader of visiting ICRC team, Mr Yann Bonzon, said, the ongoing collaboration between the NAF and ICRC reflects a shared commitment to upholding humanitarian values and ensuring the humane treatment of individuals impacted by armed conflicts.
He also noted that the dialogue between the two organizations serves as a testament to their dedication to advancing humanitarian efforts and fostering a culture of respect for human rights amid the challenges posed by conflict situations.
While applauding the NAF for its efforts in ensuring that personnel adhere to IHL, Mr Yann, further appreciated the NAF for its unwavering support and the protection provided to ICRC staff during their humanitarian activities, particularly in the Northeast and other operational areas across the country.
He also expressed the organization’s commitment to continue to dialogue with the NAF until common ground is reached on addressing humanitarian needs.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, extended his gratitude for ICRC’s substantial contributions to NAF’s activities.
He noted the impactful role played by ICRC in areas of humanitarian assistance, training, and research in operational theatres, units, colleges, and training institutions.
The CAS further noted the positive influence of ICRC’s involvement in enhancing the handling of humanitarian activities.
Air Marshal Abubakar, also, reiterated NAF’s readiness to engage with ICRC and other organizations in ensuring the adherence to humanitarian laws while executing operations.
