The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has called for the enhancement of skills, knowledge and communication capabilities through Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) for greater military effectiveness.
A statement by Media Information Officer Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that Maj.- Gen. Abubakar made the call while addressing participants of the 2025 Air-to-Ground Integration Orientation Training to be conducted by a Team of Facilitators from the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre at the Theatre Training School, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
He urged participants to apply the knowledge gained during the orientation to improve the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces.
Abubakar emphasised the critical role of AGI in enhancing military training and operational efficiency in the North East Theatre of Operations.
“Our collective efforts in combating terrorism require a well-trained and professional force that can work in synergy with other agencies and entities,” the Theatre Commander said.
He explained that the training was designed to develop synergy, communication and integration between surface forces and air assets in the theatre of operations, adding that the training will also avail the participants with the understanding of some basic concepts and application of AGI in order to prevent fratricide and civilian harm.
The Theatre Commander also reminded participants, drawn from various formations within the theatre, to approach the training with humility, responsibility, open-mindedness and willingness to learn, noting that it was the first of its kind under Operation HADIN KAI.
“As soldiers, you will play vital roles in shaping the competence and readiness of our troops.
“These are the challenges we must overcome as we work tirelessly to defeat the adversary and keep our people safe,” he said.
Maj Gen Abubakar expressed appreciation to the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) Training Team for their support and commitment, describing their expertise as a positive contribution to the theatre’s training programme.
He assured that Theatre Command would continue to partner with AWDC to strengthen capacity, foster excellence and professionalism, while commending troops for their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism.
The Theatre Commander also lauded the Theatre Training Officer for excellence in organising the training and thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede NAM, for his strategic leadership and support in facilitating the programme.
The Commander thereafter formally declared the training by the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre open.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Theatre Training Officer, Brigadier General Julius Ogbobe, welcomed participants and urged them to be open-minded and attentive throughout the programme.
He also appreciated the Theatre Commander for providing the enabling environment and strategic guidance for the training.
Also speaking, the representative of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre, Wing Commander Asa Abatura, thanked the Theatre Commander for making the training a reality and assured the facilitators’ commitment to ensuring participants were better informed at the end of the programme.
He also thanked the Air Component Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore Umar Idris for providing the Air Craft for use in the training.