By Ada Nkong
The African Aviation and Aerospace University (AAAU), Abuja, joined COP29 in Baku ,Azerbaijan (Nov 11–22, 2024), led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo alongside senior AAAU officials including the Registrar, Mustapha Sheikh Abdullahi, Director Academic Planning, Prof. Yahaya Ibrahim Zayyana, HOD Meteorology Department, Dr Eniola Ajani Olaniyan and Secretary School of Postgraduate Studies, Mr Dennis Joseph Onwukwe.
At the conference, the Minister participated in key engagements including pivotal discussions with Ms.K.O. Barrett, Deputy Secretary General of the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO). This resulted in a pledge for increased technical support to strengthen Nigeria’s advisory role.
AAAU’s participation highlights its commitment to sustainable aviation and global climate action.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo SAN, has continued to make significant strides at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP 29), demonstrating Nigeria’s commitment to global climate action and sustainable development.
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.
Meanwhile Tunde Moshood, special adviser media and communications to the minister says to further showcase Nigeria’s leadership at COP 29, the Minister addressed a press conference at the Nigerian Pavilion during the celebration of Nigeria Day. In his remarks, he underscored the importance of aligning Nigeria’s aviation and aerospace policies with global climate goals. He 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.
“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,” he stated.
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.
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.
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