Air Force Pledges Stronger Air Power As AOC Visits Operation HADIN KAI Headquarters
In counter-insurgency warfare, air power often makes the critical difference between holding ground and gaining it, and the Nigerian Air Force says it is ready to do more in the North East.
The Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command (AOC TAC), Air Vice Marshal Michael Ekwueme, has assured troops of sustained and enhanced air support during an operational visit to the Theatre Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maimalari Military Cantonment, Maiduguri, on Friday, 30 January 2026.
Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, whom he commended alongside troops of Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience, discipline, selflessness and courage in the ongoing fight against insurgency.
He pledged continued and improved air support to the theatre, including the deployment of additional air platforms to address operational challenges and consolidate gains already recorded.
“I assure you of maximum support and the deployment of more air platforms to strengthen your operations.
We remain hopeful that these efforts will hasten the restoration of peace and a return to full normalcy in the North East,” the AOC TAC said.
In his response, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar expressed appreciation for the visit, describing prompt air support as decisive to mission success despite the increasing complexity of operations.
He emphasised the importance of effective ground-to-air communication, noting that improved transition capabilities and sustained in-theatre training across sectors have significantly enhanced joint operational effectiveness.
The visit featured operational briefings at the Headquarters Theatre Command, exchange of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ book, group photographs and a guided tour of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI.
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