In a move to consolidate peace and strengthen public trust in Nigeria’s security architecture, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), through the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, has intensified non-kinetic efforts aimed at securing the South-East region.
The latest engagement, led by the Air Component Commander (ACC) of the Joint Task Force South-East, took place in ISI-UZO Local Government Area of Enugu State and marks a significant milestone in civil-military cooperation by the NAF in the region.
Held in collaboration with the Enugu State Government, land component forces, paramilitary agencies, and local security groups, the engagement prioritised direct interaction with key stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and the grassroots.
Aerial assets, including two military helicopters and a civil helicopter from the International Helicopter Flying School, were deployed as part of the outreach, showcasing transparency in military operations and reassuring communities of the NAF’s peaceful intent.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar while commenting on the initiative stated that “This engagement reflects NAF’s growing commitment to non-kinetic strategies in conflict-prone areas. Building trust is as vital as any military operation. We are set out to protect, not to intimidate.”
The forum, held in Ogbete and Agamede communities, featured candid discussions around security concerns, especially public misperceptions surrounding recent helicopter flights.
Clarifying these operations helped douse tensions and demonstrated the Air Force’s readiness to demystify its presence while addressing community fears directly.
The Anglican Bishop of Eha-Amufu Diocese, Right Reverend Daniel Nkemjika Olinya, Senior Special Adviser to the Enugu State Government on Security, Honourable Vincent Onyeabor and the Chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, Barrister Obiora Obeagu, were among notable stakeholders who lauded the initiative and encouraged continued collaboration for regional stability.
The visit, anchored on CAS’s command philosophy of “purposeful training and mission-oriented force development for enhanced national security,” is part of broader efforts to integrate local voices into security planning.
According to Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, “True victory in any conflict lies not only in defeating the enemy but in winning the confidence of the people we serve.”
According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Nigerian Air Force, disclosed in Abuja on Tuesday that the NAF would continue to leverage on soft power in tandem with kinetic operations.
Adding that its commitment to dialogue, transparency, and community partnership remains a cornerstone of national security efforts in the South-East and beyond.
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