The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to deeper collaboration with the Nigerian Army as it accelerates efforts to recalibrate its operational strategies to counter Nigeria’s evolving security threats. This was disclosed by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, during a lecture delivered 9 May 2025 to participants of Army War College Nigeria (AWCN) Course 9/2025 in Abuja.

Speaking on the theme “Military Strategic Leadership in Air Operations: My Perspective,” Air Marshal Abubakar outlined NAF’s enhanced Concept of Operations (CONOPS), tailored to deliver decisive and synchronized effects in joint military campaigns.

A key feature of this recalibration is the seamless integration of manned and unmanned aerial platforms, enhanced communication systems, and real-time data links to boost situational awareness and enable faster, precision-based decision-making. “To enhance our CONOPS to address emerging security challenges, we will work towards seamless integration of both manned and unmanned air assets, to achieve decisive airpower effects,” he stated.

Providing additional insight, the CAS remarked that “this approach ensures greater agility and responsiveness in joint operations.” A core component of this operational enhancement is synergy with sister services, particularly the Nigerian Army. Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre-led Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) initiative, which now serves as a critical framework for harmonising air and land operations. “Our enhanced CONOPS would feature better synergy, interoperability, and effectiveness with sister services in joint operations,” he said. “The NAF remains committed to leading in air-to-ground integration to ensure coordinated and efficient battlefield outcomes.”

Providing a broader operational update, the CAS underscored the tangible gains made in ongoing missions, notably Operations in the North-East and North-West. “In the past year alone, the Air Component of the Northeast Operation conducted 1,026 sorties, encompassing intensive Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Air Interdiction, and Armed Reconnaissance missions. These operations amassed over 2,236 flight hours and have played a vital role in restoring peace across several troubled Local Government Areas within the theatre,” he added. Additionally, under the Northwest Operation, the CAS reported significant impact in Sectors 1 and 2. “Since June 2023, air-ground synergy has led to the neutralisation of multiple insurgent and bandit leaders and the destruction of over 265 terrorist hideouts in Sector 1 alone. In Sector 2, joint efforts have neutralised more than 1,150 terrorists and destroyed 404 criminal structures”.

These achievements, the CAS noted, are proof of the benefits of jointness in Nigeria’s counterinsurgency operations. “This is a defining moment for our Armed Forces. A unified operational culture marked by collaboration, agility, and technological innovation. Jointness is no longer optional, it is the operational reality we must fully embrace to safeguard our nation,” he concluded. The NAF’s enhanced CONOPS, boosting synergy with the Nigerian Army, is poised to deliver lasting peace and security for Nigeria.