The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deliberately repositioned civil–military relations as a key operational enabler through enhanced community engagement, institutionalised feedback mechanisms, and strengthened strategic communication across operational theatres.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, said in a statement that Air Marshal Aneke made the remarks during the Civil–Military Relations Conference 2026 held on March 24, 2026.
According to him, in today’s complex security environment, operational success is no longer defined solely by kinetic dominance, but by the ability to build trust, foster cooperation, and integrate the human dimension into air operations.
He explained that these initiatives are designed to ensure that NAF operations remain effective, responsible, and transparent, demonstrating the Service’s commitment to accountability and compassion.
He also emphasised the importance of intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency collaboration, and the integration of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, such as strategic communication and community engagement.
He urged participants at the conference to develop practical recommendations that would deepen civil–military cooperation, promote innovation, and strengthen partnerships with civil institutions to enhance operational efficiency.
NAF repositions civil–military relations as key operational enabler