By: Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
The Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC), Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, has paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen airpower capabilities and deepen joint force integration in the North East theatre.
In a press statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on 14 January 2026, the visit was described as part of deliberate measures to enhance training, operational effectiveness and synergy among deployed forces.
Speaking during the visit, Air Vice Marshal Jibia said the engagement was aimed at interfacing with aircrew deployed under Operation HADIN KAI and paying a courtesy call on the Theatre Commander following his assumption of office as Commandant of the AWDC. He explained that the visit was in line with the Chief of the Air Staff’s philosophy, which places strong emphasis on deliberate training and mission-oriented force development.
The AWDC Commandant stressed the importance of airmindedness in building a professional and combat ready Nigerian Air Force, noting that the Service has intensified efforts to strengthen synergy, joint training and integrated operations as essential components of an effective fighting force.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, whom he described as a mentor, for his visionary leadership and the notable successes recorded by OPHK troops. He praised the gallantry and resilience of personnel in their efforts to restore lasting peace and stability in the region, assuring them of the continued support of the Armed Forces and well-meaning Nigerians.
He further reaffirmed the commitment of the AWDC to supporting OPHK and assured that observations and concerns raised during the operational briefing would receive due attention.
On arrival at the Headquarters, the AWDC Commandant received detailed briefings on ongoing operations, aimed at enabling him to make informed recommendations to further enhance operational effectiveness.
In his remarks, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar congratulated Air Vice Marshal Jibia on his well deserved promotion and appointment as Commandant of the AWDC. He described him as a seasoned and experienced pilot whose expertise would significantly contribute to strengthening joint operations within the theatre.
The Theatre Commander thanked the AWDC Commandant for the visit and assured him that OPHK would fully key into the AWDC’s innovative ideas on joint training and exercises to further improve operational outcomes. He also acknowledged the sustained sacrifices and commitment of the Nigerian Air Force in capacity development and operational support within the theatre.
The visit was attended by the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Component Commanders, the Chief of Staff Headquarters Theatre Command, Brigadier General Sani Ahmed, and other Principal Staff Officers. Highlights included operational briefings, interactive sessions, exchange of souvenirs and group photographs. End
PR



