OPERATION HADIN KAI LAUNCHES AIR-TO-GROUND INTEGRATION TRAINING TO BOOST NORTH EAST OPERATIONS

Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has commenced a specialised training programme on Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) for troops at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, aimed at improving coordination and effectiveness in the North East theatre of operations.

The orientation, which began on Monday, 8 September 2025, is the first of its kind under OPHK and is designed to strengthen synergy, communication, and operational integration between ground forces and air assets in counterterrorism operations.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, while inaugurating the training, highlighted the critical role of AGI in modern warfare.

“Our collective efforts in combating terrorism require a well-trained and professional force that can work in synergy with other agencies and entities,” he said. General Abubakar added that the programme would help participants understand basic AGI concepts, minimise the risk of fratricide, and reduce civilian harm during operations.

The Commander praised the support of the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) Training Team, describing their expertise as a vital contribution to OPHK’s capacity-building efforts. He assured that the command would continue to collaborate with AWDC to foster professionalism and operational excellence.

General Abubakar also expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, NAM, for his strategic leadership and support in facilitating the programme. He urged participants to approach the training with humility, open-mindedness, and dedication, stressing the importance of applying the knowledge gained to improve operational outcomes.

Earlier, the Theatre Training Officer, Brigadier General Julius Ogbobe, welcomed participants and thanked the Theatre Commander for providing the enabling environment for the initiative.

Speaking on behalf of AWDC, Wing Commander Asa Abatura commended the Theatre Command for making the training possible and pledged the facilitators’ commitment to delivering impactful sessions. He also acknowledged the Air Component Commander, OPHK, Air Commodore Umar Idris, for providing aircraft support for the training exercise.

The programme is expected to enhance troops’ understanding of integrated air and land operations, further strengthening the Armed Forces’ counterterrorism capabilities in the region.