The Nigerian Army’s 8 Division has formally deepened its operational collaboration with the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre (AWDC) to enhance air-ground coordination and boost combat effectiveness in the North-West, military officials said Thursday.
The partnership was cemented during a courtesy visit by AWDC Commandant, Air Vice Marshal Ibrahim Jibia, to the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Major General Bemgba Koughna, in Sokoto.
Major General Koughna praised Jibia for his “distinguished career marked by leadership excellence across multiple command roles,” assuring the centre of the division’s “full support and proactive cooperation” in advancing joint operations.
“Dialogue and collaboration remain central to tackling shared operational challenges. We are committed to supporting AWDC initiatives and providing proactive assistance even before formal requests are made,” Koughna said.
Nigerian Army 8 Division and Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre collaborate to improve air-ground operations in North-West Nigeria
The meeting coincides with an intensified phase of counterterrorism and counter-banditry operations under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which has seen increased raids, hostage rescues, and engagements across Zamfara, Kebbi, and Sokoto states in recent weeks.
Air Vice Marshal Jibia commended the 8 Division on its operational record and expressed confidence that the division would “drive positive change in the North-West’s security landscape.”
He also highlighted gaps in understanding of the AWDC’s mandate within the Armed Forces, explaining that the centre is tasked with reviewing and developing Nigerian Air Force doctrine, enhancing operational competence, and promoting jointness through integrated exercises.
“Many personnel remain unaware of the AWDC’s core responsibilities. Our mission is to refine doctrine, improve air-drone integration and translate these concepts into practical frontline application,” Jibia said.
He stressed that effective air-ground integration is essential for rapid and precise deployment of air power, particularly in theatres where ground troops face agile terrorist and bandit threats.
“This collaboration ensures that air support is responsive and coordinated, giving ground forces the tactical advantage necessary to outmaneuver threats in the North-West,” Jibia added.
