Army, Red Cross renew partnership to protect civilians in conflict areas

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting human rights and strengthening adherence to International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in military operations.

Shaibu gave the assurance while receiving the Head of Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nigeria, Miss Doris El Doueihy, on Wednesday in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, in Abuja.

The COAS said respect for human rights, protection of civilians and stronger civil-military relations remained critical to enhancing operational effectiveness and public confidence in the Armed Forces.

He described the ICRC as a trusted strategic partner whose longstanding collaboration with the Nigerian Army had strengthened humanitarian action, operational professionalism and stability in conflict-affected areas.

Shaibu said the army had fully integrated International Humanitarian Law, human rights principles and standard rules of engagement into training programmes at all levels.

According to him, the Nigerian Army remains committed to implementing its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Plan, improving detention management, facilitating humanitarian access and adopting global best practices that support mission success while safeguarding civilian lives.

He reiterated the Army’s resolve to sustain collaboration with humanitarian organisations in line with international standards as well as Nigeria’s commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.

Earlier, El Doueihy commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism, transparency and sustained cooperation with the ICRC.

She said the collaboration had significantly enhanced the safe delivery of humanitarian assistance and the protection of vulnerable communities affected by conflict.

She also acknowledged the Army’s progress in detention management and its commitment to upholding internationally accepted humanitarian standards. ( NAN)