The 4th African Air Forces Forum, held in Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria, from May 22 to 23, 2025, emerged as a defining moment for air power leadership across the continent.
Hosted by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the event coincided with the NAF’s 61st anniversary, blending a celebration of six decades of service with a forward-looking dialogue on aerospace collaboration.
The forum drew delegates from around the world, including over 2,000 participants, 12 Chiefs of Air Staff, representatives from 30 air forces, and 45 industry exhibitors like Airbus, Aselsan, Norinco, Aero Vodochody, ARMSCOR, Dentec Aerospace, Embraer, CATIC, Diamond Aircraft, INDRA, KAI, Leonardo, LZ TECH, Pratt and Whitney, PROFORCE, AFIT, Havelsan, Turkish Aerospace, AAL Group, Starlight Aviation,.
Themed “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” it wrapped up as a resounding success, fostering partnerships and setting the stage for future cooperation.
The first day kicked off with an electric atmosphere as delegates poured into Eko Hotels & Suites for registration and high-level networking. The opening session carried a deep sense of purpose, beginning with the Nigerian national anthem—a unifying moment that stirred pride among attendees.
The Hon. Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, took the stage, delivering a compelling speech about the vital role airpower plays in Africa’s defense strategy. He stressed the need for resilience and collective effort, pointing out how today’s security threats cross borders and demand a united response.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu followed, painting Lagos as a thriving center for innovation and emphasizing the growing connection between the defense sector and industry. Air Marshal HB Abubakar, the NAF’s Chief of the Air Staff, spoke next, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to building multilateral partnerships to modernize air defense across the region.
As the day unfolded, conversations turned to practical ways of boosting security and technological cooperation. Delegates explored topics like integrating unmanned aerial systems and cyber defense tools, recognizing their growing importance in modern conflicts.
The focus wasn’t just on equipment but on creating trust and aligning strategic goals among African nations. These discussions built a foundation for ongoing collaboration, with many attendees leaving the day hopeful about joint efforts in areas like surveillance, logistics, and combat operations.
The evening wrapped up with a lively cultural performance by African dancers, followed by a cocktail party where delegates mingled and forged connections in a more casual setting. The mix of formal talks and informal exchanges gave everyone a chance to explore potential partnerships while celebrating the continent’s shared heritage.
The second day brought a shift in tempo with the NAF’s 61st anniversary taking center stage. A breathtaking aerial display unfolded over Lagos, watched by Hassan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff, alongside air chiefs from foreign nations and global delegates from the rooftop of Eko Hotel. The NAF showcased a variety of aircraft—fighter jets and helicopters alike—executing precise maneuvers that demonstrated their skill and readiness. This wasn’t just a show of prowess; it was a clear message about the NAF’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s airspace and supporting regional stability. Tied into the forum’s broader goals, the display reinforced the event’s focus on advancing air power capabilities across Africa.
The forum itself served as a crucial platform for African air forces to exchange ideas, strengthen ties, and tackle shared security challenges. With participants from across the continent, it fostered open dialogue on best practices and innovative solutions. Topics ranged from counterterrorism to logistics, with a keen interest in how advanced technologies could disrupt terrorist networks and criminal operations.
Exhibitors showcased cutting-edge tools, sparking conversations about how these could shape the future of air defense in Africa. The event’s success lay in its ability to bring together diverse voices—military leaders, industry experts, and policymakers—to chart a collective path forward.
The NAF’s 61st anniversary celebrations extended beyond the forum, reflecting the force’s evolution and dedication to national security. Activities included a literary competition led by the Chief of the Air Staff, open day visits to NAF bases, and a golf tournament.
One notable moment was the commissioning of quick-impact projects, like a clinic in Rukubi, Nasarawa State, opened in response to a 2023 airstrike incident—a gesture of goodwill and accountability. The NAF also inducted the Augusta 109S Trekker helicopter, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in attendance, signaling strong governmental backing for the force’s modernization.
Another key development came during an international colloquium on space technology, where the NAF signed a memorandum of understanding with the Space Development Centre at the University of Bradford, UK. This partnership aims to boost Nigeria’s capabilities in space technology, an area increasingly vital for defense and security.
Additional agreements with Lagos State University and the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) further cemented the NAF’s push for collaborative research in aerospace advancements.
By the time the forum drew to a close, its impact was undeniable. It had strengthened bonds among African air forces and their international counterparts, paving the way for deeper cooperation. The blend of strategic discussions, technological showcases, and cultural moments created a rich tapestry that honored the past while looking ahead.
For the NAF, the 61st anniversary was both a milestone and a launchpad, reinforcing its leadership in African air power. Together, the forum and anniversary celebrations charted a course for a more secure and technologically advanced future, rooted in collaboration and shared purpose.
