Unity Key To Solving Africa’s Security Challenges – Air Chief
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, has urged African nations to deepen collaboration as the only viable path to tackling the continent’s complex and borderless security threats.
Speaking at the opening of the 4th African Air Forces Forum on 22 May at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, Air Marshal Abubakar addressed over 1,300 delegates, including air chiefs, defence experts, and industry leaders from more than 50 countries.
He emphasised that no single African country can confront today’s dynamic security landscape alone.
“In today’s rapidly evolving threat environment, the ability to project airpower—whether for deterrence, surveillance, logistics, or combat is vital,” he said. “But at the heart of this capability must be trusted partnerships grounded in shared values and strategic interests.”
Centred on the theme “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security”, the forum aims to foster cooperation, innovation, and technology exchange among African air forces.
The event opened with vibrant discussions, goodwill messages from international partners, and a showcase of cutting-edge aerospace technologies.
The Minister of Defence, Dr Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, highlighted the indispensable role of airpower in modern warfare and called for unity among African air chiefs. Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Femi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, welcomed guests to Lagos, Africa’s “most vibrant city.”
As the forum continues, expectations are high that it will set the tone for a more integrated, home-grown approach to airpower and security proving that African problems demand African solutions, strengthened by global partnerships.
