By Our Reporter
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has opened its frontline operations in the North-East to defence correspondents in a move aimed at promoting transparency, strengthening public trust and improving understanding of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
The media familiarisation visit to the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI was led by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, with journalists drawn from various media organisations.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the initiative underscored the NAF’s commitment to openness, accountability and effective strategic communication.
Aneke said transparency and credible communication were essential to sustaining public confidence and ensuring balanced reporting of the sacrifices and achievements of military personnel.
During the visit, journalists participated in day and night air and ground patrols, interacted with frontline personnel and observed the planning and execution of air operations in the theatre.
The correspondents also shared meals with troops, gaining firsthand insight into the operational challenges, professionalism and resilience of personnel engaged in the fight against terrorism.
The Air Component Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore MB Ahmed, briefed the journalists on ongoing air operations and stressed the importance of accurate and responsible reporting in countering misinformation.
Ahmed said objective media coverage would enhance public confidence in military operations while projecting the sacrifices of personnel working to restore peace in the North-East.
The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, highlighted the critical role of the Air Component in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, air interdiction and air mobility missions.
According to him, close coordination between air and ground forces has continued to improve the flexibility, responsiveness and effectiveness of joint operations against terrorist groups.
The NAF said the initiative aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in support of national security objectives.
