The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has underscored the critical role of strategic communication in contemporary counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, describing effective communication as a key enabler of sustainable military success.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, stated this while engaging participants of the Air War Course 12/2026 at the Air Force War College Nigeria, Makurdi.

Ejodame explained that while kinetic operations deliver significant tactical effects, the non-kinetic dimension provides the foundation for achieving enduring outcomes, with strategic communication playing a central role in building public confidence, strengthening legitimacy, countering misinformation and fostering community support.

He emphasised that synchronising strategic communication with military operations, intelligence, civil-military engagement and other mission enablers could enhance operational effectiveness and reinforce strategic advantage.

According to him, “truth, speed and trust are combat multipliers, but credibility is the scarce strategic resource.”

The engagement provided participants with insights into the importance of effectively shaping perceptions and managing the information environment as part of modern military operations.

The NAF said the engagement forms part of its efforts to develop professionally competent, strategically minded and operationally ready commanders capable of harnessing both kinetic and non-kinetic capabilities in pursuit of national security objectives.

It added that strategic communication remains essential to shaping the battlespace beyond the battlefield while strengthening public trust and supporting the achievement of national security goals.