By Mercy Gadia Adi
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has stepped up efforts to deepen airpower effectiveness and strengthen joint operations in the North East, as the Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, undertook an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri.
The visit formed part of ongoing measures to reinforce mission-oriented training and enhance air–ground integration, with the AWDC Commandant engaging deployed aircrew and holding strategic discussions with the Theatre Commander.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia said the engagement was in line with the operational philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff, which prioritises deliberate training, doctrine development and force readiness to build a professional and combat-ready Air Force.
He emphasised the need for airmindedness and inter-service synergy, noting that effective joint training and coordinated operations remain central to sustaining operational gains in the counter-insurgency campaign. The AWDC Commandant commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his leadership and the operational successes recorded under Operation HADIN KAI, describing him as a seasoned commander and mentor.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia also praised the gallantry and resilience of troops in the theatre, assuring them of continued support from the Armed Forces and well-meaning Nigerians. He reaffirmed AWDC’s commitment to supporting Operation HADIN KAI, adding that observations and issues raised during operational briefings would be addressed to further improve mission effectiveness.
The visit featured detailed briefings on ongoing operations, which, according to the AWDC Commandant, would inform recommendations aimed at strengthening air–ground coordination and mission execution.
In his remarks, Major General Abubakar congratulated Air Vice Marshal Jibia on his recent promotion and appointment, describing him as an accomplished pilot whose experience would add value to joint operations in the theatre. He expressed appreciation for the visit and reaffirmed the readiness of Operation HADIN KAI to adopt innovative ideas from the AWDC, particularly in joint training and exercises.
The Theatre Commander also acknowledged the sustained commitment and sacrifices of the Nigerian Air Force in capacity development and operational support in the North East.
Those present at the visit included the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Component Commanders, the Chief of Staff, Headquarters Theatre Command, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, and other principal staff officers. Activities during the visit included operational briefings, interactive sessions, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.