By Philip Nwosu
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, have called for a unified and technology-driven approach to air security in Africa, emphasizing regional collaboration to tackle growing threats such as terrorism and transnational crime.
They made the call yesterday during the 4th African Air Forces Forum held at Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, as part of events marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force. The forum, themed “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” brought together top military officials and defense experts from across the continent.
Speaking through Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, Governor Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for African nations to adapt to the evolving nature of warfare by embracing technological advancements and investing in the training of air force personnel.
“We must invest in the development of our air forces. The issues we confront as a region—ranging from terrorism to safeguarding our extensive airspace—are complex and require innovative solutions and a unified approach,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He noted that collaboration among nations is essential to sharing intelligence, pooling resources, and building deterrence capabilities, adding that no single country can independently tackle the scale of insecurity facing the continent.
Defence Minister Abubakar, in his remarks, said technology is now central to modern defense systems and urged African countries to prioritize investment in aerospace technologies. He listed innovations such as unmanned aerial systems, integrated communication networks, and cyber defense tools as key to combating insurgency and terrorism.
“Air power is vital, but sustainable security also depends on good governance, economic development, and social justice,” Abubakar said. He noted that the Tinubu administration had invested heavily in modernizing the Nigerian Air Force’s capabilities in surveillance, air mobility, and strike operations.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Bala Abubakar, described the forum as a platform to foster unity and promote shared strategic interests. He said air power had become critical to national security and regional stability.
“In today’s dynamic environment, projecting air power for defense, logistics, or intelligence has become indispensable,” he stated.
The forum concluded with calls for stronger partnerships among African air forces and greater commitment to building regional security frameworks anchored in technology, cooperation, and shared values.