By Bavoriat Clara
The Headquarters 8 Division, Nigerian Army, in collaboration with Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has hosted participants of the Air Force War College Course 12/2026 as part of their National Study Tour aimed at strengthening strategic air power integration in support of civil authority and national development.
The study tour is designed to bridge the gap between state-level operations and the strategic deployment of air power in addressing security challenges across Nigeria. The theme for this year’s tour, “State Resources and Air Power: National Development in Northwest Nigeria in Focus,” focuses on leveraging air power capabilities to enhance security and promote socio-economic development in the region.
Speaking during the visit, the Commandant of the Air Force War College, Air Vice Marshal Gambo Mbaka, explained that participants were divided into three teams for coordinated field engagements. He disclosed that Team A is currently in Sokoto State, Team B in Kebbi State, and Team C in Zamfara State, enabling broader exposure to operational environments across the Northwest.
Air Vice Marshal Mbaka noted that the tour provides participants with firsthand insight into the prevailing security challenges in the region, while highlighting the collaborative efforts of the 8 Division Nigerian Army, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, and other security agencies in tackling threats.
He emphasized the importance of combining theoretical knowledge with practical experience, stating that while classroom instruction in operational art and joint planning is essential, direct interaction with field institutions enhances professional judgment and operational effectiveness.
The Commandant also commended the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Major General Bemgba Koughna, for the warm reception and support extended to the delegation.
Representing the GOC, the Chief of Staff, Headquarters 8 Division, Brigadier General Ibrahim Gambari, welcomed the delegation and reaffirmed the Division’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration and continuous professional development within the Armed Forces.
Highlights of the tour included briefings on the history, structure, and operational activities of the 8 Division and Operation FANSAN YAMMA, as well as engagements with the Sokoto State Government on sub-national security strategies. Participants also visited the Waziri Junaidu History and Culture Bureau, gaining deeper insights into the historical and cultural context of Sokoto State, an important component of operational awareness.
The tour is expected to further strengthen joint operational capacity and foster enhanced cooperation among Nigeria’s security agencies.
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