The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Sunday  Aneke, has declared that operational success now depends as much on public trust and cooperation as it does on military firepower.

Speaking at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Civil–Military Relations Conference 2026 held on Tuesday, the CAS said modern security challenges require a broader, more people-centred approach to operations.

“In today’s complex security environment, 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,” Aneke stated.

The conference, themed “Leveraging Civil-Military Relations for Enhanced Operational Efficiency,” brought together military personnel, academics, and civil stakeholders to explore new strategies for improving operational outcomes through stronger civilian engagement.

Aneke explained that the NAF has deliberately repositioned civil–military relations as a critical operational tool, introducing structured community engagement, feedback systems, and improved strategic communication across its theatres of operation.

According to him, these measures are designed to ensure that air operations are not only effective but also transparent and accountable.

Highlighting recent efforts to reinforce public confidence, the CAS pointed to the approval of compensation for victims of an accidental airstrike in Sokoto, as well as the implementation of Special Intervention Projects in states including Kwara, Rivers, Delta, Kano, and Akwa Ibom.

These initiatives, he said, span medical outreach programmes and infrastructure support aimed at strengthening ties between the military and host communities.

He further stressed the growing importance of intelligence-led missions and inter-agency collaboration, noting that the integration of kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, such as strategic communication and community engagement, has become essential in addressing evolving security threats.

Aneke also acknowledged the support of Bola Tinubu, stating that the President’s leadership has provided the resources and strategic direction needed for the Air Force to effectively carry out its mandate.

In his opening remarks, Edward Gabkwet, Chief of Civil–Military Relations,  underscored the rising significance of non-kinetic approaches in modern warfare.

He noted that the establishment of the Civil–Military Relations Branch in July 2024 was a deliberate move to strengthen community engagement, ensure adherence to human rights standards, and improve public perception of military operations.

Gabkwet disclosed that the branch has since 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 enhance transparency and accountability.