The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has officially assumed the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces (AAAF).
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in a post on its Facebook page on Tuesday, stated that the CAS’s appointment reinforces the need for enhanced collaboration in addressing Africa’s security challenges.
Speaking at the African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in Zambia, which held from 16 to 22 February 2025, Air Marshal Abubakar emphasized the importance of regional partnerships in strengthening airpower capabilities to combat threats such as terrorism, insurgency, and transnational crime.
He highlighted that cooperation among African Air Forces, alongside strategic alliances with international partners, is essential for building capacity, improving interoperability, and fostering innovation in aerospace operations.
Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed his commitment to advancing the AAAF’s objectives, particularly in operationalizing the association and enhancing Africa-led Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) efforts.
In addition to his new role, Air Marshal Abubakar confirmed Nigeria’s commitment to hosting the 2026 African Air Chiefs’ Symposium. Furthermore, the NAF has been selected to host the 4th edition of the African Air Forces Forum (AAF) in Lagos from 21 to 23 May 2025, making it the first time a country will host consecutive editions.
With the theme “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” the forum will bring together Air Chiefs, defense experts, and industry leaders to explore innovations in aerospace technology.
“The decision by Great Minds Events Management LLC to entrust Nigeria with hosting the event again underscores the NAF’s growing influence and leadership in regional airpower discussions”, the NAF stated.
