NAF takes journalists to frontline, showcases counter-terrorism operations

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken defence correspondents to the frontline of Operation HADIN KAI in the Northeast, giving journalists firsthand insight into the planning and execution of ongoing air operations against terrorists.

The media familiarisation visit, led by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, was aimed at deepening public understanding of military operations and strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence in the fight against terrorism.

During the visit, the journalists participated in day and night air and ground patrols, interacted with aircrew and ground support personnel and shared meals with troops at the frontline. The engagement also exposed the correspondents to the operational challenges faced by personnel and the coordination between the Air Force, Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the theatre.

Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said transparency and credible communication remained critical to sustaining public trust and ensuring balanced reporting of the sacrifices and achievements of military personnel. He noted that closer engagement with the media would provide Nigerians with a better understanding of the operations and challenges confronting troops.

Briefing the journalists, Air Component Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore M.B. Ahmed, explained ongoing air operations and stressed the importance of accurate and responsible reporting in countering misinformation and strengthening public confidence in the military.

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, Major General A.E. Abubakar, highlighted the role of the Air Component in Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), air interdiction and air mobility missions. He said the capabilities had continued to improve the flexibility and effectiveness of joint military operations in the Northeast.

The NAF said precision air operations have contributed to degrading the capabilities of terrorist groups while supporting ground forces and protecting civilian communities.

It added that the media engagement was in line with the CAS’ command philosophy of building a professional, motivated and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in support of national security objectives.