Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation, has unveiled an ambitious proposal to harness solar energy to power the country’s international airports. This initiative aligns with the global shift towards eco-friendly practices and green technologies, as mandated by the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO) long-term aspiration of achieving net-zero emissions in the aviation sector.
By implementing solar power solutions, the Aviation Ministry aims to significantly reduce the staggering monthly expenditure of N1 billion on diesel for lighting at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos. This move not only promotes sustainability but also promises substantial cost savings, freeing up resources for other critical aviation projects.
Festus Keyamo, Minister of Aviation: Bypassing DisCos to Cut Electricity Costs at Airports
Festus Keyamo highlighted the ministry’s plan to bypass the Distribution Companies (DisCos) and directly engage with Generation Companies (GenCos) for electricity supply to the airports. This strategic move is expected to result in cost savings of up to 30%, as it eliminates the need to pay DisCos’ additional profit margins.
The Minister, Festus Keyamo emphasized the unique operational requirements of international airports like Lagos and Abuja, which must remain open 24 hours a day to accommodate international flights. By optimizing electricity procurement, the Aviation Ministry aims to ensure uninterrupted operations while achieving significant cost efficiencies.
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo: Suspension of Air Nigeria Project, Focus on Local Airlines
Amidst the proposed initiatives, Festus Keyamo confirmed the continued suspension of the contentious Air Nigeria project, which was initiated by the former aviation minister, Hadi Sirika. He firmly stated that the project was not intended to serve the country and its people, raising concerns about its true motives and beneficiaries.
Instead, Festus Keyamo expressed a preference for supporting and promoting local airlines to fly the Nigerian flag. He questioned the rationale behind bringing in a foreign entity to operate under the Nigerian flag when domestic airlines could fulfill this role more effectively and with greater benefit to the nation.
Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo :Revised Airport Master Plans and Concession Agreements on the Horizon
In addition to the solar power initiative and the suspension of Air Nigeria, Keyamo hinted at upcoming plans to review and revise the airport master plans. This move aims to ensure that the country’s aviation infrastructure is aligned with contemporary best practices and meets the evolving needs of the industry.
Furthermore, the minister indicated the possibility of reevaluating the concession agreements for four airports. This review process could potentially lead to adjustments or modifications to the existing agreements, ensuring a more favorable and efficient operational framework for the aviation sector.
Festus Keyamo: Embracing Eco-Friendly Practices for Sustainable Aviation
Festus Keyamo emphasized the ministry’s commitment to embracing eco-friendly practices and green technologies in line with ICAO’s global standards. He stressed the importance of transitioning towards sustainable aviation practices, recognizing the industry’s impact on the environment and the need for proactive measures to mitigate its carbon footprint.
By investing in renewable energy sources like solar power and exploring other eco-friendly solutions, the Aviation Ministry aims to position Nigeria as a leader in sustainable aviation practices, contributing to the global effort to combat climate change while ensuring the long-term viability of the aviation sector.
Festus Keyamo: Cost Optimization and Operational Efficiency at the Forefront
Throughout his remarks, Festus Keyamo highlighted the ministry’s focus on cost optimization and operational efficiency. From exploring alternative electricity procurement strategies to suspending projects deemed unfavorable to the nation’s interests, the Aviation Ministry is determined to streamline operations and maximize resource utilization.
By implementing cost-saving measures and promoting local industry participation, the ministry aims to create a more robust and self-sufficient aviation ecosystem that contributes to the country’s economic growth while upholding the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
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