By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Air Force has intensified efforts to enhance 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.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia said the visit was aimed at interfacing with aircrew deployed under Operation HADIN KAI and paying a courtesy call on the Theatre Commander following his assumption of duty as Commandant of the AWDC.
He explained that the engagement 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 effective airpower.
The AWDC Commandant stressed the importance of air mindedness in building a professional, responsive and combat-ready Nigerian Air Force, noting that sustained synergy, joint training and integrated operations remain essential to achieving operational superiority in complex security environments.
He commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, whom he described as a mentor, for his leadership and the notable successes recorded by troops of Operation HADIN KAI.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia also praised the courage and resilience of personnel in their efforts to restore lasting peace and stability in the region, assuring them of the continued support of the Armed Forces and well-meaning Nigerians.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the AWDC to supporting OPHK and assured that observations and concerns raised during the visit would receive due attention.
On arrival, the AWDC Commandant was briefed on ongoing operations to enable informed recommendations aimed at further enhancing operational effectiveness.
Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar in his respons congratulated Air Vice Marshal Jibia on his well-deserved promotion and appointment, describing him as an experienced and accomplished pilot whose expertise would add significant value to joint operations in the theatre.
The Theatre Commander reaffirmed OPHK’s readiness to leverage the AWDC’s innovative ideas on joint training and exercises to boost operational effectiveness.
He also acknowledged the sacrifices and sustained commitment of the Nigerian Air Force 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, and other Principal Staff Officers. Highlights included operational briefings, interactive sessions, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs.
