On Monday, the Nigerian Air Force embraced advancements in artificial intelligence and space technology for their missions, stating that this marks a shift from traditional methods towards fully integrating digital-era combat techniques.
The force disclosed via the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, that they have educated more than 70 NAF members in essential areas related to space technology, with training conducted domestically as well as internationally.
Abubakar revealed this information during his speech at the International Colloquium in Abuja. The event was organized by the NAF in partnership with the Bradford AI Space Center to celebrate the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st anniversary.
Since the introduction of Nigeria’s 25-year Space Roadmap in 2005, considerable progress has been made in the field of space science and technology, demonstrating some concrete achievements; however, there remains substantial opportunity for further development.
‘Beneath President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s guidance, Nigeria has seen a fresh surge in its aspirations for space exploration, driven by decisive and well-planned instructions.’
For example, the president’s endorsement of a multi-billion naira take-off fund for the National Space Research and Development Agency, coupled with permission to deploy four more satellites, clearly demonstrates an unshakeable dedication to advancing space technology.
These efforts underscore space technology as a key pillar of our national strategy—to foster economic diversity, enhance intellectual capacities, and bolster self-reliance amid a progressively intricate international environment.
Against this background, the conference transcends mere bilateral discussions; it serves as a focal point for national collaboration, aligning with His Excellency’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at fostering prosperity in Nigeria,” stated the CAS.
He stated that the NAF aims to create a future wherein the Nigerian Air Force takes the lead in utilizing artificial intelligence and space technology to fulfill its mission with unparalleled flexibility and toughness, serving both Nigeria and its citizens.
Discussing the theme of the Colloquium—’Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Efficient Use of Space Science Technology to Improve NAF Operations—the keynote speaker, retired Air Vice Marshal Charles Otegbade, praised the organizers for creating an opportunity to assess and evaluate how advancements in artificial intelligence and space science technology have influenced the fulfillment of the NAF’s mission objectives. He commended their initiative as highly appreciable.
Earlier, in his address of welcome, the Chief of Communications Information Systems, NAF Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal S K Usman, said the convergence of artificial intelligence and space technology is redefining the boundaries of possibilities in modern operations.
The International Colloquium, he said, is a deliberate effort to explore how AI-driven innovations can be employed to enhance space-based operational capabilities of the Nigerian Air Force.
“We strive to thoroughly analyze how we can improve the incorporation of artificial intelligence into Nigerian Air Force missions to boost situational awareness, streamline resource allocation, and strengthen our cyber warfare tactics and investigative efforts,” he stated.
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