The Nigerian Air Force has paid compensation to families and victims affected by the accidental airstrike that occurred on December 25, 2024, in Sokoto State, which led to the deaths of 13 civilians and injuries to eight others.

The victims were residents of Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages in Silame Local Government Area. The compensation was confirmed in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

Speaking during the compensation exercise, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, represented by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, expressed deep regret over the incident and conveyed the Air Force’s condolences to the affected families. He described the loss of civilian lives as deeply saddening and assured that the military had taken the matter seriously.

Aneke explained that the airstrike was carried out under Operation Fasan Yamma, following intelligence reports indicating the movement of suspected terrorists through the affected communities. 

Although the operation was based on multiple intelligence checks, a petition received in April 2025 prompted a thorough investigation, which later confirmed that civilians were unintentionally killed during the strike.

According to the Air Chief, the compensation exercise was aimed at acknowledging the harm caused, promoting accountability and transparency, easing tensions, and providing some form of closure to the affected families. He stressed that protecting civilians remains a top priority of the Nigerian Air Force and that no professional military intentionally targets the people it is sworn to protect.

He added that since assuming office in October, civilian harm mitigation has been central to his leadership approach. As part of ongoing reforms, the Air Force has developed a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan designed to strengthen operational planning, improve investigations, enhance learning, and ensure timely responses whenever civilian harm occurs.

The Air Chief also commended Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, for fostering strong civil-military relations and for implementing inclusive security initiatives, including the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guards Corps. He noted that such localised security measures have complemented federal efforts in reducing terrorist and bandit activities in parts of the state.

While reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to decisive action against terrorists and criminal elements, Aneke urged citizens to avoid associating or living in close proximity with armed groups, warning that such situations increase the risk of collateral damage during military operations. He emphasised that public cooperation remains vital to safeguarding innocent lives.

In his response, Governor Aliyu expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Air Force for taking responsibility and supporting the affected communities. He praised the service for its continued efforts to protect lives and property and for its role in maintaining peace and security across Sokoto State and the wider North-West region.