ABUJA, NIGERIA — United Nations has called for a full investigation into recent military airstrikes in northern Nigeria that reportedly killed more than 100 civilians.
The international body urged both Nigerian and Chadian authorities to carry out transparent inquiries into the incidents amid growing concern over civilian casualties in the region.
According to reports, the airstrikes occurred during military operations targeting armed groups and insurgents operating around border communities linked to insecurity in the Lake Chad region.
Humanitarian agencies and rights groups have raised alarm over the increasing impact of military operations on civilians living in conflict-affected areas.
The UN said accountability and independent investigations are necessary to establish the circumstances surrounding the strikes and prevent future tragedies.
Officials also stressed the importance of protecting civilian populations during counterterrorism and security operations.
Northern Nigeria has remained a major conflict zone for years due to insurgency, banditry, and cross-border armed activities involving extremist groups.
Military operations by regional forces have intensified in recent years as governments attempt to weaken insurgent networks operating across Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon.
However, several past airstrikes have sparked controversy after reports emerged that civilians were mistakenly targeted during operations.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly called on security forces to improve intelligence gathering and operational procedures to avoid civilian deaths.
The UN expressed concern that repeated incidents involving civilian casualties could deepen humanitarian challenges and erode public trust in security operations.
Analysts say communities affected by insurgency are already struggling with displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to healthcare and education.
Humanitarian workers operating in the region have also warned that fear of attacks continues to disrupt farming and economic activities.
Nigerian authorities have previously defended military operations as necessary in the fight against terrorism and armed violence.
Security experts note that the difficult terrain and movement of armed groups within civilian communities often complicate aerial operations.
Meanwhile, rights advocates insist that all allegations involving unlawful killings must be independently investigated to ensure justice for victims and accountability for abuses.
The UN also urged authorities to strengthen measures aimed at protecting civilians and complying with international humanitarian law during military operations.
Observers believe the outcome of any investigation could influence future security policies and regional cooperation efforts in combating insurgency across the Lake Chad basin.
Attention now turns to whether Nigerian and Chadian authorities will launch independent probes and publicly release findings surrounding the deadly airstrike allegations.
