The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, has urged African leaders to intensify collaboration and technological advancement across African air forces to address the continent’s escalating security threats.
Abubakar, who spoke at the opening of the 4th African Air Forces Forum in Lagos, which gathered Chiefs of Air Staff and aerospace leaders from over 30 nations, emphasised the need for unity, innovation, and strategic partnerships in the face of evolving regional and global security dynamics.
This was disclosed in a statement by his Personal Assistant on Media, Mati Ali.
The minister said: “We are confronted by multidimensional threats that transcend borders and defy traditional responses. Terrorism, transnational crime, and maritime insecurity demand robust, collective action anchored in advanced airpower and strategic partnerships.”
Under the theme “Strengthening Collaboration in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” the forum marks a pivotal moment for African defense cooperation.
The minister also highlighted that Nigeria, in pursuance of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is investing heavily in the modernisation of the Nigerian Air Force, with emphasis on Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), to air mobility, and precision strike capabilities.
“A technologically advanced Nigerian Air Force is not only vital to Nigeria’s security but a strategic asset to Africa’s collective defence,” the minister said.
He also underscored the central role of cutting-edge aerospace technologies, ranging from unmanned aerial systems to integrated cyber defence, in shaping modern defence architecture. However, he cautioned that technology alone is not enough.
According to him, “this forum is not only about technological advancement. It is about the human dimension of trust, mutual respect, and a shared ambition for a secure, united, and prosperous Africa.”
The minister paid tribute to Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Armed Forces and his visionary leadership in advancing peace and security both at home and across Africa.
