“Trust, Not Just Firepower, Defines Operational Success” — CAS
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has declared that modern military success can no longer be measured solely by firepower, but by the ability of the armed forces to build trust and foster cooperation with civilian populations.
Speaking at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Civil–Military Relations Conference 2026 in Abuja, the CAS emphasised that integrating the human dimension into air operations has become central to achieving mission effectiveness in today’s complex security environment.
The conference, themed “Leveraging Civil-Military Relations for Enhanced Operational Efficiency,” brought together military personnel, academics, and key stakeholders to explore strategies for strengthening collaboration between the military and civil society.
According to Aneke, the NAF has deliberately repositioned civil–military relations as a critical operational enabler through enhanced community engagement, institutionalised feedback mechanisms, and improved strategic communication across operational theatres.
“Operational success is no longer defined solely by kinetic dominance, but by our ability to build trust, foster cooperation, and integrate the human dimension into air operations,” he stated.
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Highlighting practical steps already taken, the CAS cited the approval of compensation for victims of an accidental airstrike in Sokoto, as well as the implementation of Special Intervention Projects across several states, including Kwara, Rivers, Delta, Kano, and Akwa Ibom. These initiatives, he noted, include medical outreaches and infrastructure support aimed at strengthening public trust and cooperation.
Aneke also stressed the importance of intelligence-led operations and inter-agency collaboration, alongside the integration of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies such as strategic communication and community engagement.
He urged participants to develop actionable recommendations that would deepen partnerships with civil institutions and enhance operational efficiency.
The CAS further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support, noting that the administration’s leadership has provided the resources and strategic direction necessary for the Air Force to fulfil its mandate effectively.
In his opening remarks, the Chief of Civil–Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, underscored the growing significance of non-kinetic operations in modern warfare.
He revealed that the establishment of the Civil–Military Relations Branch in July 2024 was part of deliberate efforts to strengthen community engagement, ensure human rights compliance, and improve perception management.
Gabkwet added that the branch has rolled out key initiatives, including a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan, the creation of a dedicated department at the Air Warfare and Doctrine Centre, and a digital complaints platform to promote transparency and accountability.
The one-day conference featured presentations by renowned experts, including Professor Okey Ikechukwu and retired Air Vice Marshal JD Gwani, whose papers sparked robust discussions on civil–military relations and perception management.
Other notable attendees included the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, alongside senior military officers, former spokespersons, and key stakeholders from the media and civil space.
The conference marks a significant shift in the NAF’s operational philosophy, placing people, trust, and accountability at the centre of its mission to secure the nation.