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In a decisive call to action, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, has advocated for deeper collaboration and technological advancement among African nations to counter the continent’s growing security threats. The Minister made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 4th African Air Forces Forum, held in Lagos on Thursday.

The high-level forum, themed “Strengthening Collaboration in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” brought together Chiefs of Air Staff and aerospace leaders from over 30 countries. The event aims to enhance regional cooperation, foster innovation in defence technology, and solidify strategic partnerships across Africa’s air forces.

“We are confronted by multidimensional threats that transcend borders and defy traditional responses,” Minister Abubakar stated. “Terrorism, transnational crime, and maritime insecurity demand robust, collective action anchored in advanced airpower and strategic partnerships.”

Minister Abubakar emphasized the urgency of collective defence strategies rooted in technological excellence and political unity. He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing investments in modernizing its air force capabilities, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. These investments focus on enhancing Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), air mobility, and precision strike operations.

“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, underscoring the broader continental implications of Nigeria’s defence modernization.

He also stressed the transformative potential of aerospace innovations such as unmanned aerial systems and integrated cyber defences, while cautioning that technical advancement must be paired with human-centric values.

“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,” he noted.

The Minister also acknowledged President Tinubu’s steadfast commitment to strengthening the Nigerian Armed Forces and fostering regional peace and security. He praised the Chief of Air Staff and the Nigerian Air Force for successfully convening the international forum, describing their efforts as a powerful example of purposeful partnership.

As the Forum continues, defence leaders are expected to outline actionable strategies to advance air power cooperation, deepen inter-African ties, and support the broader goal of a stable and prosperous Africa. The gathering marks a significant step in positioning air power as a cornerstone of continental security and development.

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