The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has called for deeper collaboration with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to strengthen public engagement and ensure more effective communication in support of military operations.
The Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, made this call during a courtesy visit to the NAN headquarters on Tuesday in Abuja.
Ejodame, who conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, described NAN as a “big brother” in the crucial task of winning hearts and minds in modern warfare.
He emphasized that warfare had evolved beyond traditional combat, with strategic communication and perception management now playing a dominant role in mission success.
“We have come to say a big thank you to the News Agency of Nigeria for the remarkable work it is already doing in amplifying the efforts of the Nigerian Air Force and the Armed Forces in general,” Ejodame said.
“In contemporary warfare, actual combat accounts for only 25 to 30 per cent of victory. The remaining 70 to 75 per cent lies in non-kinetic efforts—particularly in gaining the trust and confidence of the people.”
He noted that public messaging is often more effective when it comes from credible institutions like NAN, adding that the media serves as a critical partner in building national cohesion and security.
“Sometimes, when we in uniform speak, the public may remain unconvinced. But when trusted institutions like NAN communicate our efforts, it reinforces our credibility and reassures citizens,” he said.
Ejodame explained that the visit was not only to show appreciation but also to request increased support and stronger collaboration.
“We are here today like Oliver Twist—to ask for more support, more cooperation, and to strengthen our already fruitful relationship with the News Agency of Nigeria,” he added.
In response, the Managing Director of NAN, Mallam Ali M. Ali, welcomed the delegation and pledged the agency’s continued support to the Nigerian Air Force and the broader Armed Forces.
Ali commended the professionalism of the NAF, noting its reputation as a dominant and respected force within the West African sub-region and beyond.
“Your request for greater collaboration is granted,” Ali affirmed.
“NAN, like the Air Force, values integrity. While yours is about safeguarding the nation, ours is about preserving the integrity of news. We are united in that mission.”
He highlighted NAN’s national and international reach, with over 500 correspondents across Nigeria and foreign bureaus in New York, Johannesburg, Côte d’Ivoire, and plans to reopen additional offices in London, Moscow, and Beijing.
“Whatever message you wish to communicate—whether to local communities or the international audience—we stand ready to deploy our extensive network and resources to support you in winning hearts and minds,” he concluded.