19th of April, 2026.

ADVANCING AIR-TO-GROUND INTEGRATION FOR SUPERIOR COUNTER-INSURGENCY EFFECTS

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to leveraging air power as a decisive instrument in ongoing counter-insurgency operations, as exemplified by the recent courtesy visit of the Director General, Air Power Centre of Excellence, Air Vice Marshal PO Obeya, to the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) on 17 April 2026. The engagement highlighted ongoing efforts within the Service to deepen doctrinal development, operational effectiveness, and capacity building, critical enablers for sustaining air superiority in complex and asymmetric battle environments. Central to this is the strengthening of Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI), ensuring seamless coordination between air assets and ground forces to deliver precise, timely, and intelligence-driven effects in the battlespace.

During the visit, AVM Obeya and the Commandant of AWDC, Air Vice Marshal GI Jibia, held productive discussions focused on advancing modern air warfare practices, enhancing joint operations, and strengthening strategic planning frameworks. Particular emphasis was placed on refining AGI processes, which remain vital in counter-insurgency campaigns where close air support, surveillance, and rapid response capabilities must be effectively synchronized with ground manoeuvre elements. The continued investment in professional military education and doctrinal advancement reinforces the Centre’s pivotal role in developing highly skilled air power practitioners equipped to operate in dynamic and evolving threat environments.

This initiative is a direct reflection of the vision of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, whose leadership continues to drive innovation, integration, and operational excellence in the application of air power. By promoting stronger internal collaboration, advancing AGI capabilities, and fostering continuous learning, the NAF is enhancing its operational readiness and effectiveness in counter-insurgency operations nationwide. The visit underscores a deliberate and forward-looking approach to consolidating air power capabilities in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and reinforcing national security.

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