NAF brings airpower doctrine to life on battlefield, boosts air-ground synergy
Nigerian Air Force NAF
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is bridging the gap between theory and combat reality by deploying its airpower doctrine directly to the frontlines of Operation HADIN KAI, intensifying air-ground integration (AGI) to sharpen the fight against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East.
Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), led a strategic operational assessment at the Joint Task Force (North East) Headquarters in Maiduguri.
The visit underscored the NAF’s push to synchronise doctrine, training, and operations, positioning air assets for critical roles in intelligence, surveillance, precision strikes, and close air support.
Interacting with frontline commanders and aircrew, AVM Jibia stressed the need for seamless joint operations.
“Effective AGI remains a critical enabler of airpower dominance, ensuring air operations are closely coordinated with ground manoeuvres to deliver decisive operational effects,” he said, aligning the efforts with Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke’s philosophy.
Jibia highlighted Aneke’s focus on “deliberate training, mission-focused force development, and airmindedness, defined as a professional culture that blends skill, discipline, adaptability, and situational awareness.”
He pledged expanded joint training and deeper inter-service ties as pillars of modern warfare.
Praising the troops’ “gallantry, resilience, and remarkable operational successes,” Jibia assured ongoing support from AWDC, promising to address operational feedback raised in briefings.
Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar welcomed the initiative, reaffirming OPHK’s dedication.
“We remain committed to adopting innovative doctrinal inputs, particularly in AGI and integrated exercises,” he responded.
