The Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command (AOC TAC), Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekwueme, has assured troops of Operation HADIN KAI of enhanced and sustained air support as operations against insurgents continue in the North East.
Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme gave the assurance on Friday, 30 January 2026, during an operational visit to the Theatre Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, at the Maimalari Military Cantonment, Maiduguri. He was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar.
Commending the troops for their resilience, discipline, selflessness and courage, the AOC TAC praised their unwavering commitment to the ongoing counter-insurgency operations. He assured the Theatre Commander of the Nigerian Air Force’s continued support, including the deployment of additional air platforms to further strengthen operations and consolidate recent gains within the theatre.
“I assure you of maximum support and the deployment of more air platforms to strengthen your operations. We remain hopeful that these efforts will hasten the restoration of peace and a return to full normalcy in the North East,” Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme said.
In his response, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar expressed appreciation for the visit, describing timely and responsive air support as a decisive factor in the successes recorded by the troops despite the increasing complexity of operations.
The Theatre Commander underscored the importance of effective ground-to-air coordination, noting that improved transition capabilities and sustained in-theatre training across sectors have significantly enhanced joint operational effectiveness.
According to the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the visit featured operational briefings at the Theatre Command Headquarters, exchange of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ book, group photographs, and a guided tour of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI.
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