As the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) commemorates its 60th anniversary, the role of business aviation in enhancing regional integration and security in Africa has taken center stage. This theme was a key highlight at the Third Africa Airforce Forum, where Vivajets, a prominent aviation company, showcased its commitment to supporting the Air Force’s aircraft acquisition and management.
Hosted by the NAF, this year’s forum is a landmark event in African aerospace and air power, celebrating six decades of the Nigerian Air Force’s service. The three-day conference and exhibition featured over 20 speakers, representatives from more than 35 countries’ air forces, and 40 exhibitors. Discussions focused on leveraging strategic partnerships and aerospace innovations to bolster regional security.
Vivajets‘ CEO, Chukwuerika Achum, explained the pressing security challenges confronting Africa which includes terrorism, piracy, and insurgency – as compounded by limited state resources and vast, diverse terrain.
Achum noted “This has posed a serious challenge to business connectivity as well,”
Enhancing Military Operations
Business aviation, distinct from commercial aviation, involves the use of owned or chartered aircraft for various specialized purposes.
Achum at the event highlighted several areas where business aviation can enhance military operations, including troop and equipment transportation, medical evacuation, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, border security, and humanitarian efforts.
“Vivajets is ready to support governments and Air Forces across Africa with various capabilities in diverse areas. Whether in procuring and leasing aircraft for tailored projects or providing training and financing support, we are committed to bolstering regional security,”
Meanwhile, Vivajets’ Director for Europe, Middle-East, and Africa,Jeane-Claude Kouyo, added, “As an indigenous African company, we have local knowledge of the continent’s business terrain as well as an international outlook. This enables us to provide customized solutions to challenges specific to Africa.”
Kouyo expressed Vivajets’ aim to democratize access to business aviation, making this typically exclusive service more inclusive across the continent.
Dignitaries at the event praised the efforts of the Nigerian Air Force and called for greater cooperation among African countries. Air Marshal HB Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff of the Nigerian Air Force, highlighted the importance of international partnerships in enhancing NAF’s capabilities and effectiveness.
“In its 60 years, international cooperation and partnerships have remained key to the Nigerian Air Force’s interactions with other air forces and international companies, enhancing its capabilities and effectiveness,” Abubakar said.
He also stressed the necessity of partnering with technologically advanced countries and their Original Equipment Manufacturers for acquiring necessary platforms and expertise.
“Another area of partnership is in sharing knowledge, experiences, and resources with other air forces through platforms such as the African Air Forces Forum,” he added.
The forum undoubtedly spotlighted the critical role of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions in addressing Africa’s security challenges. It also pressed home the importance of leveraging business aviation as a strategic asset for enhancing military operations and regional stability.
Vivajets’ participation and commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force and other African air forces through aircraft acquisition, management, and specialized aviation services mark a significant step towards strengthening the continent’s defense capabilities.
The collaborative spirit exhibited at the forum promises a future of enhanced security and regional cooperation in Africa.
