The Chief of the Air Staff, CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has assumed the Chairmanship of the Association of African Air Forces, AAAF.

Olusola F. Akinboyewa, Air Vice Marshal and Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, in a statement on Tuesday, said the AAAF is a non-political organization dedicated to enhancing airpower capability and cooperation among African nations.

Speaking at the African Air Chiefs’ Symposium, which was held in Zambia from February 16–22, 2025, the CAS highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and strategic partnerships in strengthening African airpower capabilities and addressing common threats.

Air Marshal Abubakar stressed that enhanced cooperation among African Air Forces is crucial for tackling emerging security challenges such as terrorism, insurgency, and transnational crime.

He also underscored the role of strategic partnerships with allied nations and international organizations in building capacity, enhancing interoperability, and advancing technological innovations in aerospace operations.

According to the CAS, the AAAF symposium is more than just a meeting of minds but a demonstration of commitment toward a safer, more secure, and more prosperous Africa.

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

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 further assured members of Nigeria’s commitment to delivering a successful African Air Chiefs’ Symposium in 2026. As he takes on this new role, Air Marshal Abubakar called for renewed commitment from all member states, stressing that unity and cooperation remain critical to achieving the Association’s objectives.