Chioma Vivian James
In a bold demonstration of its commitment to transparency, accountability and strategic communication, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) recently took a delegation of defence correspondents on a familiarisation visit to the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI in Nigeria’s North-East theatre of operations. The initiative provided journalists with a rare opportunity to witness firsthand the planning, coordination and execution of ongoing counter-terrorism missions aimed at restoring peace and stability in the region.
The media delegation, led by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, comprised defence correspondents from leading media organisations across the country. Throughout the visit, the journalists were immersed in the realities of frontline military operations, gaining valuable insight into the complexities of modern air warfare and the unwavering dedication of personnel serving in one of Nigeria’s most demanding operational environments.
The visit forms part of the Nigerian Air Force’s broader strategy to deepen public understanding of military operations, foster trust between the armed forces and citizens, and encourage balanced, factual reporting of security activities. By opening its operational doors to the media, the NAF reaffirmed its belief that informed public engagement is essential to sustaining confidence in national security efforts.
Speaking on the importance of the initiative, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, represented during the engagement, emphasized that transparency and credible communication remain indispensable to effective military operations. He noted that keeping citizens accurately informed about the sacrifices, achievements and challenges of personnel deployed across the country is critical to strengthening public trust and national unity.
During the tour, journalists participated in both day and night air and ground patrols, offering them a unique perspective on the operational tempo of troops engaged in counter-terrorism missions. They interacted with pilots, engineers, intelligence officers and ground support personnel, while also sharing meals with frontline troops. These experiences provided an authentic understanding of the demanding conditions under which military personnel operate daily to safeguard the nation.
The correspondents witnessed firsthand the professionalism, discipline and resilience of officers and airmen working tirelessly alongside the Nigerian Army and other security agencies. Their observations highlighted the high level of inter-service cooperation that has become a hallmark of Operation HADIN KAI, a joint campaign dedicated to dismantling terrorist networks and restoring security across the North-East.
A key aspect of the visit was the opportunity to observe how precision air operations contribute to degrading terrorist capabilities while minimizing risks to civilian populations. Through carefully planned missions supported by advanced surveillance and intelligence assets, the Air Component continues to play a pivotal role in disrupting insurgent activities and protecting vulnerable communities.
Briefing the delegation, the Air Component Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore M.B. Ahmed, underscored the importance of accurate, balanced and responsible reporting in shaping public perception and countering misinformation. He stressed that the media remains a critical partner in conveying factual accounts of military operations and the progress being made in the fight against terrorism.
Similarly, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, Major General A.E. Abubakar, highlighted the strategic contributions of the Air Component in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), air interdiction and air mobility missions. According to him, these capabilities serve as force multipliers that enhance the effectiveness of joint operations and support the overall success of military campaigns in the theatre.
Beyond showcasing operational achievements, the engagement reflected the command philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff, which prioritizes the development of a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in synergy with ground forces. The philosophy also recognizes the importance of public confidence as a vital component of national security.
As journalists returned from the theatre with a deeper appreciation of the realities confronting military personnel, the visit reinforced the value of openness, collaboration and informed reporting. By granting the media direct access to its operations, the Nigerian Air Force has taken another significant step toward bridging the gap between the military and the public, ensuring that the story of sacrifice, courage and commitment unfolding in the North-East is told with accuracy, context and credibility.
