The Nigerian Air Force has said that military action alone is insufficient to achieve sustainable peace in the country, emphasising the need for diplomacy and strategic partnerships to complement security operations.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, made this known in a goodwill message delivered on his behalf by Air Commodore E. P. Bindul at the first anniversary and General Assembly of the International Society of Diplomats, Nigeria, held in Abuja on Saturday.
Aneke noted that diplomacy remains a critical instrument of national power, particularly in the face of Nigeria’s evolving security challenges and threats across the West African sub-region.
“The Nigerian Air Force recognises that military capabilities alone cannot guarantee lasting peace. Diplomacy, leadership engagements and strategic partnerships are vital complements to kinetic efforts in tackling the numerous security challenges confronting our nation and the sub-region,” he said.
He explained that closer collaboration between the Air Force and diplomatic institutions would enhance international understanding of Nigeria’s security realities and strengthen cooperation with global partners.
According to the air chief, such partnerships could also support humanitarian interventions, conflict prevention initiatives and containment strategies, while contributing to regional stability and global peace.
“The synergy between the Nigerian Air Force and diplomatic bodies presents a unique opportunity to promote peace through cooperation and shared responsibility,” Aneke added.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to sustained engagement with diplomatic stakeholders in advancing peace, security and development within Nigeria and beyond.
Earlier in his remarks, the Country Director and Head of Mission of the International Society of Diplomats, Nigeria, Edet Ekpeyong, said the organisation was using its first anniversary to draw renewed attention to the importance of peace at a time of widespread insecurity.
“Diplomacy cannot thrive in the absence of peace, and peace is directly linked to progress and social development,” Ekpeyong said.
He explained that the society was adopting empowerment and capacity-building initiatives as part of efforts to address insecurity, particularly by reducing youths’ vulnerability to crime.
“We are approaching the issue differently through empowerment programmes, so that we can contribute meaningfully to sustainable peace in Nigeria,” he said.
Ekpeyong also disclosed that the organisation was providing training platforms to expose young Nigerians to diplomacy and international engagement, describing such exposure as a pathway to global opportunities.
