In response to the ever-changing and dynamic security landscape in Nigeria, air power has emerged not only as an indispensable force but also as an unrivaled asset. The flexibility of air power has proven crucial in dealing with the fluid nature of the current security environment. However, to maintain its effectiveness in the face of rapid technological advancements and adaptive adversaries, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) acknowledges the imperative of continuous adaptation and innovation.
The NAF’s journey towards becoming a resilient and formidable force hinges on its commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, embracing conceptual revolutions in air power, and aligning with key enablers outlined in the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy. These enablers include force structure optimization and strategic training and mission-oriented force development. In combination with advanced technology, these elements are pivotal to achieving the NAF’s ambition of resilience and agility.
Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdulkadir, the NAF Chief of Training and Operations (CTOP), shared these insights during the Armed Forces Command and Staff College’s Department of Air Warfare Air Operations Seminar held at Jaji, Kaduna State from February 12 to 13, 2024. Abdulkadir emphasized the deliberate strategy behind recent upgrades to the NAF’s Order of Battle, citing the induction of platforms such as the T-129 ATAK helicopters. These acquisitions were carefully tailored to meet operational needs, possessing multirole capabilities and ensuring cost-efficient maintenance protocols.
The CTOP underlined the importance of effective man-machine synergy in building a resilient force. He highlighted the meticulous vetting of courses at the Department of Air Warfare for relevance and value, with nominees limited to the most qualified individuals. Through these measures and others, the NAF aims to cultivate an air force that is not only flexible and adaptable but also resilient enough to navigate the ever-evolving trends in air power amid a dynamic security environment.
In his opening remarks, Air Vice Marshal Hassan Alhaji, the Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, acknowledged the critical role air power plays in the uncertain and complex operational environment. He stressed the need for practitioners in air power to consistently pursue contemporary and innovative strategies to stay ahead of adversaries. Alhaji emphasized that current operational and fiscal realities demand the creative employment of multidomain capabilities, with air power serving as a key enabler.
The two-day seminar, themed “Evolving Character of Air Power in Modern Warfare: Nigerian Air Force Combat Operations in Perspective,” featured presentations from esteemed scholars within and outside the military. The scholars discussed topics essential to the NAF’s operational effectiveness, offering insights and viable solutions for consideration. The seminar provided a platform for collaborative discussions and the exchange of ideas aimed at enhancing the role of air power in addressing contemporary security challenges in Nigeria.