In an unprecedented move to strengthen transparency and public confidence in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has given journalists rare frontline access to ongoing operations under Operation HADIN KAI in the North-East.
The media familiarisation visit, led by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, saw defence correspondents embedded with the Air Component of the operation, where they witnessed firsthand how air missions are planned and executed in support of the fight against insurgency.
Beyond observing operations, the journalists joined day and night air and ground patrols, interacted with pilots, engineers and support personnel, and shared meals with troops deployed on the frontline, offering an unfiltered glimpse into the realities of military life in one of Nigeria’s most challenging conflict zones.
The visit also highlighted the close coordination between the Nigerian Air Force, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in intelligence gathering, surveillance, air interdiction and troop mobility—operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities while protecting civilian communities.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the initiative reflects the Air Force’s commitment to openness, accountability and effective strategic communication.
According to him, transparency and credible engagement with the media are essential to building public trust and ensuring balanced reporting of the sacrifices and achievements of military personnel.
The Air Component Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore M.B. Ahmed, urged journalists to prioritise accurate and responsible reporting, stressing that factual reporting plays a critical role in countering misinformation and strengthening public confidence in military operations.
Also addressing the delegation, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, Major General A.E. Abubakar, described the Air Force as a vital force multiplier in the ongoing campaign against insurgency. He said its intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, air interdiction and air mobility capabilities continue to enhance the speed, flexibility and effectiveness of joint military operations.
The Nigerian Air Force says the media engagement aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff’s vision of building a highly professional, mission-ready force while fostering greater public understanding and support for the military’s efforts to restore peace and security in the North-East.