In furtherance of efforts to enhance airpower capabilities and strengthen joint force integration in the North East theatre, the Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, has paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri.
Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Jibia said the engagement 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 noted that the visit aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s philosophy, which prioritises deliberate training and mission-oriented force development as critical pillars for strengthening airpower.
In a statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, AWDC Commandant emphasised the importance of air-mindedness in building a professional and combat-ready Nigerian Air Force, stressing that the Service has intensified efforts to strengthen synergy, joint training, and integrated operations as hallmarks of a formidable fighting force.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar—whom he described as a mentor—for his visionary leadership and the notable successes recorded by OPHK troops. He praised the gallantry and resilience of personnel working to restore lasting peace and stability in the region, assuring them of the continued support of the Armed Forces and well-meaning Nigerians.
He further reaffirmed the commitment of the AWDC to supporting OPHK and assured that issues raised during the briefing would receive due attention.
On arrival, the AWDC Commandant was briefed on ongoing operations, with a view to making informed recommendations aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar congratulated Air Vice Marshal Jibia on his recent, well-deserved promotion and appointment as Commandant of the AWDC, describing him as a seasoned and experienced pilot whose expertise would further enhance joint operations within the theatre. He thanked the AWDC Commandant for the visit, noting that OPHK would greatly benefit from the engagement.
The Theatre Commander reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to leveraging the AWDC’s innovative ideas on joint training and exercises to further improve operational effectiveness. He also appreciated 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.
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