By Nkechi Eze
The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has recognised the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) for its contributions to the fight against terrorism and other security threats, presenting an award to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke.
The award was presented at DECAN’s 2026 Conference and Awards held on October 12 at the Nigerian Army Command Officers’ Mess 1, WU Bassey Barracks, Asokoro, Abuja.
The conference, themed “Beyond Kinetic Warfare: Harnessing Technology and Intelligence-Led Operations for Nigeria’s National Security,” brought together military leaders, defence officials and journalists to examine strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s response to evolving security threats.
The recognition highlights the strategic importance of airpower in counterterrorism operations, particularly in aerial surveillance, intelligence gathering and coordinated air strikes against terrorist targets.
Through these capabilities, the Nigerian Air Force provides operational support to ground troops, enhances situational awareness and contributes to joint military efforts to disrupt terrorist activities and other security threats across the country.
Deliberations at the conference underscored the growing need for security agencies to embrace intelligence-led operations and emerging technologies to improve operational effectiveness.
Participants highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence, geospatial intelligence, advanced surveillance systems and real-time information-sharing in detecting threats, tracking adversaries and supporting timely operational decisions.
They also emphasised that investment in technology must be matched by adequate personnel training, reliable equipment and stronger inter-agency cooperation to deliver sustainable security outcomes.
In a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Air Commodore Stephen Ogunmodele, the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.), stressed that military firepower alone could not guarantee national security, noting the importance of intelligence in identifying threats and enabling precise operations.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence, geospatial intelligence, space-based surveillance and intelligence fusion in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
The conference further examined the responsibilities of defence correspondents in informing the public about military operations while maintaining professional standards and safeguarding sensitive operational information.
The Minister of Defence urged journalists to balance accountability with operational security, cautioning against the publication of unverified reports and sensitive details that could compromise military missions or endanger personnel.
The conference reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between the military and the media in promoting public understanding of security operations and supporting national security objectives.
The recognition of Air Marshal Aneke comes amid continuing efforts by the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to strengthen intelligence-driven operations, modernise military capabilities and improve responses to terrorism and other security challenges.
As Nigeria confronts increasingly complex security threats, the effective integration of airpower, intelligence and joint operations remains central to efforts to protect lives, secure communities and restore stability in affected areas.
