Past Military Feud Starved Soldiers of Air Support During Operations — Bwala

Presidential aide Daniel Bwala has attributed some past operational challenges faced by Nigerian ground troops to historical rivalries and feuds within the military, which reportedly deprived soldiers of timely air support.  

Bwala, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Communication, made the remarks while reflecting on lessons from previous counter-insurgency and security operations.

He highlighted how inter-service tensions, particularly between the Army and the Air Force, had at times hindered effective coordination, leaving ground forces vulnerable without adequate aerial cover, logistics, or close air support.

 According to Bwala, such feuds in the past created silos that undermined joint operations. Troops on the frontlines occasionally operated without the critical air mobility, reconnaissance, or strike capabilities needed to counter threats effectively, especially in vast and difficult terrains like the North-East.

This situation reportedly contributed to logistical strains, including instances where soldiers faced shortages or isolation, underscoring the need for seamless inter-service collaboration.

Bwala’s comments come amid ongoing efforts to strengthen synergy among the armed forces. Recent operations have demonstrated improved air-land integration, with the Nigerian Air Force providing precision strikes, surveillance, and logistical support that have helped neutralize terrorists and bandits while minimizing risks to troops.

 He emphasized that overcoming these historical challenges requires a unified command structure, better communication, and a shared focus on national security objectives.

The current administration, he noted, prioritizes such collaboration to ensure soldiers receive all necessary support for mission success.

The remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of inter-service harmony in modern asymmetric warfare, where air power plays a pivotal role in supporting ground operations against elusive non-state actors.

Military analysts agree that addressing past institutional frictions has been key to recent gains in the fight against insecurity.

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