4th African Air Forces Forum: Shaping Future Airpower Strategy and Innovation
Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies
The 4th African Air Forces Forum, held on 22-23 May 2025, in Victoria Island, Lagos, convened senior military officials, industry pioneers, and global defence leaders to advance discussions on Africa’s evolving air power strategy.
Over two days, attendees explored intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) advancements, air force modernisation, and counterterrorism capabilities in asymmetric warfare.
Day 1: Airborne ISR & Africa’s Air Power Strategy
The Forum opened with a strong call to collaboration, led by Guest of Honour, Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, who emphasised airpower’s critical role in regional security and technological advancement within Africa’s defence strategy.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu positioned Lagos as a hub for defence innovation and collaboration.
Air Marshal HB Abubakar, Chief of Air Staff, Nigerian Air Force, reaffirmed Nigeria’s leadership in fostering multilateral air defence partnerships.
Air Vice Marshal S Masera, Air Force of Zimbabwe, and Brigadier General Nicolas Chambaz, French Air & Space Force, delivered goodwill messages, reinforcing international collaboration.
The agenda progressed to advancements in airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to modernising air forces for enhanced situational awareness and strategic defence.
Industry insights featured Airbus, Embraer, CATIC, ASELSAN, ALIT, and Aeronautical Engineering & Technical Services Limited, showcasing cutting-edge aerospace technology tailored for ISR capabilities.
Day 2: Enhancing Air Power for Counterterrorism and Asymmetric Warfare
The second day commenced with a keynote address from H.E. Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State, who explored state-level contributions to air force modernisation.
Building on this foundation, Dr. Chinyere Almona, FCA, DG/CEO of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, linked defence innovation with economic stability, reinforcing its role in national security.
Subsequently, discussions transitioned towards enhancing air power in counterterrorism and asymmetric warfare, addressing the evolving security landscape and Africa’s growing role in regional stability.
Senior Colonel Wei Jun, Chinese Air Force, provided an international perspective on aerial navigation and defence systems.
Nigeria’s Air Chief Marshal OO Petinrin (Retd) & Air Vice Marshal Olufemi Idowu (Retd) highlighted strategic foresight in air defence.
HAVELSAN (Turkey) and AAL Group Ltd (UAE), among others showcased simulation tech and aerospace logistics tailored to modern defence needs.
Embraer took centre stage, featuring the A-29 Super Tucano & KC-390 Millennium—advancing air power solutions for asymmetric warfare.
Closing Reception: A Vision for Continued Collaboration
The VIP Farewell Dinner Reception, hosted at Eko Hotels & Suites, featured cultural performances, networking, and closing remarks by Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
The Forum gathered air forces, aviation authorities, law enforcement bodies, and ministries of defence and interior, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to strengthening aerospace collaborations.
As discussions conclude, African air power leaders remain focused on advancing air defence technologies and fostering global partnerships.