Nigeria Hosts 3rd African Airforce Forum 24, NAF celebrates 60th Anniversary

Oru Leonard 

The African Air Force Forum kicked off on Thursday as which coincides with the 60th Anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Airforce (NAF).

Representatives from various nations gathered at the event to share expertise, discuss emerging challenges, and explore innovative solutions to common security issues.

Minister of Defence in Nigeria, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, during his opening address stated that the event serves as a testament to the strength of collaboration and innovation within the African defence community.

He noted that from humanitarian missions to counterterrorism efforts, the Air Forces stand at the forefront of safeguarding the nations and promoting regional peace.

He said the critical role of aerospace innovations in regional security and the importance of strategic partnerships.

He noted that the theme of this year’s event, “Leveraging Strategic Partnerships in Aerospace Innovations for Regional Security,” was carefully coined and selected to highlight the critical role of cooperation and technological advancement in addressing the complex security challenges facing our continent.

“In an era of rapid technological evolution, harnessing the power of aerospace innovations is essential to staying ahead of emerging threats and safeguarding our collective interests”, he said. “As we convene here today, let us reflect on the progress we have made and the challenges that lie ahead. From counterterrorism operations to peacekeeping missions, our air forces are at the forefront of promoting stability and prosperity in Africa, yet, we cannot do it alone; however, strategic partnerships, both within our region and beyond, are essential for maximizing our capabilities and achieving our shared objectives”.

He disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force’s six-decade journey is a testament to the dedication and resilience of its servicemen and women, noting that their unwavering commitment to duty has been the cornerstone of national defense and a source of inspiration for our African partners.

“Today, we gather to celebrate not only the rich history of our air forces but also to chart a course for a future marked by innovation, collaboration, and enhanced security across the region”, he said.

Speaking earlier, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar said acknowledged the awareness that the Sub-Saharan Africa faces a multitude of national security challenges, including violent extremism, terrorism, and insurgency, noting however, that in addressing these threats, air power has emerged as the means of choice due to its unique characteristics of speed, lethality, and ubiquity.

He said the gathering of African Air Chiefs could not have come at a better time than now, when the yearning for collaboration towards peace and stability on the continent is at its peak.

“Being a highly technical force has made it exigent for the Nigerian Air Force to partner with technologically advanced countries and their resident Original Equipment Manufacturers for the acquisition of necessary platforms and expertise to function. Another area of partnership is in the area of sharing knowledge, experiences and resources with other air forces, through platforms such as the African Air Forces Forum”, he stressed.

He also added that the African Air Forces Forum is a regional platform for advancing air force capabilities and building pillars of bilateral and multilateral partnerships amongst the air forces of African countries and the Forum offers a unique opportunity for air forces to showcase their technological innovations that contribute to enhance Africa’s aerial defence and security capabilities.

Air force leaders around the world, including Ethiopia, India, Pakistan, the United States, and China, highlighted the importance of international collaboration in enhancing air power and security. Distinguished speakers included Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa of the Ethiopian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari of the Indian Air Force, General David W. Allvin of the United States Air Force, and Lieutenant General Jia Zhigang of the PLA Air Force, China.

Highlight of the event was the unveiling of the “Nigerian Air Force at 60” photobook, a commemorative piece celebrating six decades of excellence and service by the Minister of Defence, Chief of Defence Staff, CAS and other Service Chiefs and dignitaries present.