In a renewed effort to strengthen peace and build trust among local communities, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), through the Air Component of Operation UDO KA, has increased its non-kinetic approach to securing the South-East region. A recent stakeholder engagement held in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State marks an important milestone in the NAF’s civil-military relations strategy.
The engagement, led by the Air Component Commander (ACC) of the Joint Task Force South-East, united a diverse group of stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, paramilitary agencies, and local vigilante representatives. Conducted in partnership with the Enugu State Government and other security agencies, the initiative aimed to address ongoing public concerns and reinforce the military’s peaceful presence in the region.
In a symbolic display of transparency, the NAF deployed two military helicopters alongside a civil helicopter from the International Helicopter Flying School as part of the outreach. This move aimed to demystify aerial operations and reassure residents of the Air Force’s non-hostile intentions.
Commenting on the initiative, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, emphasised the importance of trust-building in conflict-sensitive zones. “This engagement reflects NAF’s growing commitment to non-kinetic strategies in conflict-prone areas. Building trust is as vital as any military operation. We are set out to protect, not to intimidate,” he stated.
Held across the communities of Ogbete and Agamede, the forum provided an open platform for residents to express security-related concerns, especially regarding recent helicopter movements that had caused apprehension in the area. Clerics and local leaders who participated, including the Anglican Bishop of Eha-Amufu Diocese, Rt. Rev. Daniel Nkemjika Olinya, and the Chairman of Isi-Uzo LGA, Barr. Obiora Obeagu, commended the initiative and called for sustained cooperation between security agencies and local communities.
Hon. Vincent Onyeabor, Senior Special Adviser to the Enugu State Government on Security, also commended the dialogue, emphasising that such community-level engagement is vital for sustainable peace in the region.
The initiative aligns with the Chief of Air Staff’s command philosophy centred on “purposeful training and mission-oriented force development for enhanced national security.” Air Marshal Abubakar emphasised that true victory in any conflict is not solely defined by military success but by the confidence and support of the people.
