Operation Hadin Kai Launches First Air-to-Ground Training to Boost Troop Effectiveness in North East
In a strategic move to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts, the Theatre Command Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) on 8 September 2025 commenced its first Air-to-Ground Integration (AGI) orientation training for troops at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
Declaring the programme open, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, stressed the critical role of AGI in enhancing operational efficiency across the North East theatre.
“Our collective efforts in combating terrorism require a well-trained and professional force that can work in synergy with other agencies and entities,” he stated.
He explained that the training seeks to improve communication and coordination between ground forces and air assets, equipping participants with skills to prevent fratricide and civilian harm during operations.
Major General Abubakar urged participants—drawn from various formations across the theatre—to approach the training with humility, responsibility, and open-mindedness, noting its historic significance as the first of its kind under OPHK.
The Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) Training Team is facilitating the exercise, with Wing Commander Asa Abatura assuring participants of the team’s commitment to delivering impactful sessions. He also expressed gratitude to the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore Umar Idris, for making aircraft available for the programme.
The Theatre Commander thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his strategic leadership in enabling the training, while reaffirming OPHK’s commitment to building capacity, professionalism, and synergy across the Armed Forces.
Earlier, the Theatre Training Officer, Brigadier General Julius Ogbobe, welcomed participants and encouraged them to be attentive and open to learning.
“This initiative demonstrates our resolve to enhance professionalism and effectiveness in the fight against terrorism,” General Ogbobe remarked.
The orientation marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy, embedding modern joint warfare principles into the operational framework of Operation Hadin Kai.
📌 Report by Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, OPHK
