Nigerian Air Force Chief emphasizes strategic communication

Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff for the Nigerian Air Force, has emphasized the necessity of modern communication strategies to navigate increasingly complex and contested information environments. Speaking at the 2026 Directorate of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI) Annual Media Workshop in Abuja, Aneke highlighted that effective information management is an operational necessity rather than a mere support function.

Addressing the challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and hostile narratives, the Air Chief noted that these factors can undermine military operations and erode public confidence. He tasked information officers with moving beyond standard press releases to become strategic communicators capable of shaping public understanding, projecting professionalism, and preserving institutional credibility.

The workshop, themed ‘Enhancing Strategic Media Operations of Nigerian Air Force Public Relations and Information Personnel Through Capacity Building in Crisis Management Skills,’ included media professionals, academics, and security stakeholders. Jibrin Ndache, Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, also participated, suggesting that the media should be viewed as strategic partners in the planning and execution of military operations.