COP 29: Minister underscores importance of Nigeria’s aviation to global climate goals

Nigeria’s Aviation and Aerospace Development Minister, Festus Keyamo, has underscored the importance of aligning Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace policies with global climate goals.

The minister stated this while addressing the press at the Nigerian Pavilion at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29), Baku, Azerbaijan, and highlighted ongoing efforts to integrate sustainable practices into the nation’s aviation infrastructure, including initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and adopting cleaner energy sources.

Keyamo, who held a productive session with Ms. K.O. Barrett, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), said “Nigeria is fully committed to playing its part in addressing the global climate crisis. Our aviation sector is undergoing transformative reforms to ensure it aligns with international sustainability standards. The commitments we secure here at COP 29 will drive our vision for a resilient and eco-friendly aviation ecosystem.”

The session between the minister and Ms. K.O. Barrett, Deputy Secretary-General of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), yielded a key commitment from the WMO to provide enhanced technical assistance to Nigeria as one of its Peer Advisors. This collaboration underscores Nigeria’s pivotal role in shaping global climate resilience strategies, particularly in the aviation sector.

The Minister also used the occasion to engage with international stakeholders and investors, presenting Nigeria as a prime destination for green investment opportunities within the aviation and aerospace sectors.

During the conference, the Minister actively participated in a series of high-level sessions and meetings, including collaborative engagements with his counterparts from the Ministries of Environment, Health, and Women Affairs. These discussions highlighted the interconnectedness of aviation and climate change, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable practices across all sectors.

Nigeria’s participation at COP 29 reaffirms its dedication to global partnerships aimed at achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development remains resolute in its mission to position Nigeria as a leader in sustainable aviation practices.