Foreign Affairs, Air Force strengthen strategic communication amid security challenges
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigerian Air Force have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper institutional coordination and stronger strategic communication as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
This was the focus of a familiarisation and synergy visit by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, to the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, at the Air Force Headquarters in Abuja on Monday.
The engagement, which took place against the backdrop of growing security concerns and heightened international attention, provided a platform for open and forward looking discussions on how diplomatic communication and military public information can better align. Both sides agreed that modern security realities demand closer cooperation, as military operations are increasingly shaped by public perception, global media narratives and diplomatic considerations.
Speaking during the meeting, Air Commodore Ejodame explained that Nigeria’s security environment is largely defined by asymmetric and guerrilla style threats, where hostile elements often operate within civilian populations.
He noted that this reality makes both military operations and public communication more complex, as information must be handled carefully to avoid endangering civilians, compromising operations or exposing security personnel.
From the diplomatic angle, Ebienfa stressed the importance of measured and well coordinated public communication, especially in situations involving international partners, foreign military engagement or sensitive security operations. He warned that unverified or premature statements can quickly escalate into diplomatic issues, particularly during fast evolving crises where facts are still emerging.
Drawing from past experiences, he noted that gaps in inter agency communication have sometimes fueled media speculation, public anxiety and unnecessary diplomatic pressure. According to him, this underscores the need for structured communication frameworks, early consultation and a clear understanding of institutional roles and limitations.
The Air Force spokesperson also pointed out that while transparency remains important, not all operational details can be made public without risking mission success, intelligence assets or the safety of personnel. He added that delayed or inadequate communication can create information gaps that are often exploited by misinformation, disinformation or hostile narratives.
Both officials agreed that information warfare has become a critical element of modern conflict and that Nigeria must remain alert to narratives capable of undermining the credibility and professionalism of its Armed Forces. They noted that despite the challenges posed by asymmetric warfare, Nigeria’s military continues to command respect within the region and beyond.
Discussions also covered broader strategic and geopolitical issues, including public perceptions around foreign military cooperation, the risk of misinterpreting partnerships as dependency, and the danger of narratives that could deepen social divisions or encourage radicalisation.
The need for evidence based communication was emphasised, particularly in communities affected by insecurity, displacement or trauma.
The meeting ended with a shared commitment to sustained collaboration between the communication units of both institutions, early engagement on issues with diplomatic implications and consistent messaging that reflects both operational realities and national interests.
Both sides also agreed to pursue capacity building initiatives such as joint media simulations and regular spokesperson engagements to strengthen whole of government communication.
They reaffirmed that Nigeria’s national interest remains paramount and that coordinated strategic communication is essential to protecting sovereignty, maintaining public trust and strengthening the country’s global standing.
The visit was described as timely, constructive and forward looking, reflecting a shared resolve to enhance national response mechanisms to security and diplomatic challenges.
