The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified efforts to strengthen its airpower capabilities and deepen joint force integration in the North East as the Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri.
The visit forms part of ongoing initiatives to enhance mission effectiveness through deliberate training, doctrine development and closer collaboration between air and ground components operating within the theatre.
Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Jibia explained that the engagement was aimed at interfacing with aircrew deployed under Operation HADIN KAI and formally paying a courtesy visit to the Theatre Commander following his recent assumption of duty as Commandant of the AWDC. He noted that the visit aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s operational philosophy, which places strong emphasis on deliberate training and mission-oriented force development as critical drivers of airpower effectiveness.
The AWDC Commandant stressed the importance of airmindedness in building a professional, responsive and combat-ready Nigerian Air Force.
According to him, the Service has continued to prioritise synergy, joint training and integrated operations as essential elements of a formidable and modern fighting force.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, whom he described as a mentor and visionary leader, for the remarkable successes recorded by troops of Operation HADIN KAI.
He praised the gallantry, resilience and dedication of personnel in their sustained efforts to restore peace and stability in the North East, assuring them of the continued support of the Armed Forces and well-meaning Nigerians.
He further reaffirmed the AWDC’s commitment to supporting OPHK, adding that issues and concerns raised during the operational briefing would receive due attention.
On arrival at the Theatre Headquarters, the AWDC Commandant was briefed on ongoing operations, enabling him to make informed recommendations aimed at further enhancing operational effectiveness within the theatre.
In his response, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar congratulated Air Vice Marshal Jibia on his well-deserved promotion and appointment as Commandant of the AWDC. He described him as a seasoned and highly experienced pilot whose expertise would further strengthen joint operations in the North East.
The Theatre Commander expressed appreciation for the visit, noting that Operation HADIN KAI stands to benefit significantly from the engagement and strategic insights shared.
Major General Abubakar reaffirmed the commitment of OPHK to aligning with AWDC’s innovative ideas on joint training and exercises to boost operational efficiency.
He also acknowledged the Nigerian Air Force’s sustained sacrifices and contributions to capacity development and operational support within the theatre.
The visit was attended by the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Component Commanders, the Chief of Staff Headquarters Theatre Command, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, as well as Principal Staff Officers of the Theatre Command. Highlights of the visit included operational briefings, interactive sessions, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.
