Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Defence Abubakar Badaru have advocated for the adoption of advanced technologies and enhanced regional cooperation to combat terrorism and transnational crime in Africa. Their call was made during the 4th African Air Forces Forum held in Lagos, where they stressed the importance of technological advancements and collaborative defense strategies to address the growing complexity of security challenges on the continent.

The forum, themed “Strengthening Collaborations in Advanced Aerospace Technologies for Enhanced National and Regional Security,” convened air force chiefs and defense experts from over 30 African countries. Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Sanwo-Olu, conveyed Lagos State’s honor in hosting the international event, praising the Nigerian Air Force for spearheading an initiative to unite African air power and technology experts in addressing shared security concerns.

Dr. Hamzat emphasized the theme's relevance to the challenges faced by the continent, urging adaptation to the evolving nature of warfare, embracing technological advancements, and investing in air force training and development. He highlighted the complex issues facing the region, including terrorism, transnational crime, and safeguarding airspace, which necessitate innovative solutions, collaborative strategies, and a unified approach.

Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru underscored the collective responsibility of African nations in addressing cross-border security threats like terrorism, violent extremism, and organized crime. He emphasized the importance of knowledge sharing and cooperation to address evolving security challenges, noting that groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to cause instability and require sophisticated strategies to counter.

The minister emphasized that a technologically advanced Nigerian Air Force is not only vital for Nigerian security but also for the broader African security architecture. He reiterated commitment to nurturing partnerships with allies across the continent and beyond, stressing that the forum's theme encompasses both technological advancement and the human dimensions of collaboration, including trust, mutual respect, and the shared goal of a secure, united, and prosperous Africa. He urged participants to engage in open dialogue to transform shared ideas into actionable realities.

Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, highlighted the event as a platform for fostering unity, deepening cooperation, and advancing a collective vision of peace, security, and progress across the African continent's skies.