The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has strengthened efforts to improve joint military operations by conducting an in-theatre Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) and Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) orientation programme for personnel of Operation Savannah Shield.
The five-day training, organised by the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) from June 22 to 26, 2026, brought together personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy and the NAF. It was aimed at improving joint force employment, enhancing air-ground coordination and boosting mission planning and execution in complex operational environments.
The programme featured classroom lectures, interactive sessions and practical demonstrations designed to improve participants’ operational capabilities. Key areas covered included air-to-ground integration procedures, joint operational planning, mission coordination and contemporary battlefield practices. Participants also received instruction on the legal, ethical and operational measures required to minimise civilian harm during military operations.
As part of the exercise, the AWDC conducted an abridged Air Liaison Officers’ course for NAF pilots and Regiment officers at NAF Base Kainji. The course broadened participants’ understanding of joint air operations, operational planning, air mobility coordination and inter-service collaboration, reinforcing the importance of integrated battlefield operations and precision in modern military campaigns.
Speaking during the programme, the Commandant of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre, Air Vice Marshal Garba Jibia, emphasised the growing need for integrated operations in addressing evolving security challenges. He noted that effective coordination, rapid decision-making and seamless cooperation between air and ground forces remain critical to mission success.
Quoting the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who stated that “Decisive air power delivers its greatest effect when seamlessly integrated with surface operations,” Jibia said the training was carefully designed to improve professionalism and mission readiness in line with the Chief of the Air Staff’s command philosophy.
Participants described the programme as practical, insightful and professionally rewarding, expressing confidence that the knowledge acquired would improve future operational planning and mission coordination.
The successful training, according to the NAF, reflects its continued commitment to building an integrated and mission-ready joint force capable of delivering precise air power while mitigating civilian harm and enhancing national security.
