The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has assumed the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces (AAAF), emphasizing the need for African-led solutions to the continent’s security challenges.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by Air Vice Marshal Olusola F. Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information at the Headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force.

The AAAF is a non-political organization dedicated to enhancing airpower capability and cooperation among African nations.

Speaking at the African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in Zambia, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and strategic partnerships in strengthening African airpower capabilities and addressing common threats.

“Our collaboration is a powerful reminder of the importance of finding African solutions to African problems,” he said.

The new AAAF Chairman outlined key priorities for his tenure, including the full operationalization of the Association and the enhancement of Africa-led Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response (HADR) operations.

He also assured members of Nigeria’s commitment to delivering a successful African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in 2026.

Air Marshal Abubakar’s appointment as AAAF Chairman underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) leadership role and expanding capabilities in the region.

The NAF has also been entrusted with hosting the 4th edition of the African Air Forces Forum (AAF) in Lagos from May 21 to 23, 2025.

The AAF will bring together key stakeholders, including Air Chiefs, defense experts, and industry leaders, to explore cutting-edge advancements in aerospace technology and their role in bolstering security across Africa.

The event’s theme, “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” reflects the NAF’s commitment to regional cooperation and security.

As Air Marshal Abubakar takes on his new role, he calls for renewed commitment from all member states, stressing that unity and cooperation remain critical to achieving the Association’s objectives.