By Joy Odor Reportcircle News
In a bold strategic move to tighten the noose on terrorists and bandits in North-West Nigeria, the 8 Division Nigerian Army and Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) have officially partnered with the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) to enhance operational synergy and joint combat effectiveness.
The collaboration was formalized during a courtesy visit by Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, Commandant of AWDC, to the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 OPFY, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna.
The meeting, held on January 23, 2026, marks a critical step toward integrated air-ground operations aimed at closing tactical gaps exploited by insurgents and criminal networks.
During the visit, Major General Koughna lauded Air Vice Marshal Jibia’s distinguished career and leadership across multiple command roles.
He pledged the full support and cooperation of 8 Division, emphasizing sustained dialogue and proactive collaboration to tackle shared operational challenges.
Koughna also reassured AWDC of 8 Division’s commitment to assist in ongoing initiatives even before formal requests are made, signaling a new era of inter-service coordination.
In response, Air Vice Marshal Jibia congratulated the GOC on his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to drive positive change in the North-West security landscape.
He noted, however, that many Nigerian Air Force personnel remain unaware of AWDC’s core mandates which include reviewing, developing, and updating NAF doctrine, teaching employment concepts, and enhancing operational competence to facilitate jointness through integrated exercises.
The AWDC chief highlighted critical areas for improvement, particularly air-drone integration and the translation of doctrine into practical frontline application, underscoring that effective air-ground coordination is central to delivering optimal air power in support of land operations.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of souvenirs and group photographs, symbolizing the renewed commitment of the Army and AWDC to operate in seamless partnership against terrorism in Nigeria’s North-West.
Military analysts say this collaboration could be a game-changer, ensuring quicker reaction times, enhanced intelligence sharing, and more lethal, synchronized operations across insurgent hot spots.
As the region continues to face threats from terrorists and bandits, the Army-Air Doctrine alliance signals a new chapter in joint operations, combining firepower, strategy, and doctrine to regain and secure contested territories.
