Keyamo calls for sustainable practices to mitigate climate change
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has called for enhanced sustainable practices to mitigate climate change in Nigeria.
Keyamo made this call during his keynote address at the public presentation of the 2025 Seasonal Climate Prediction (SCP) earlier this week in Abuja. The theme of the event was: “The Role of Early Warnings Towards a Climate-Resilient Aviation Industry for Sustainable Socio-Economic Development.”
In his address, the Minister stated that the Federal Government would continue investing in sustainable practices, strengthening infrastructure, and supporting communities most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
“Our seasonal climate predictions are not just about forecasting, they are about shaping our response to the challenges ahead. As we celebrate the 2025 SCP document, let us recognise that its true value lies in its application,” Keyamo remarked.
He urged all stakeholders in attendance—including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, private sector actors, civil society organisations, researchers, and the media—to champion the use of the SCP within their respective fields.
“Collaboration and information-sharing will be key to maximising its impact. The challenges posed by climate change demand innovative solutions. The Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, through NiMet, will remain at the forefront of these efforts,” he added.
Keyamo also emphasised that with the support of policymakers and industry leaders, Nigeria could build a more resilient and prosperous future, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration.
Addressing the challenges within the aviation industry, the Minister highlighted the increasing impact of erratic weather patterns and the rising frequency of extreme weather events. He noted that these climate changes directly affect airline operations, as climate change continues to alter the planet’s systems.
“Aviation remains a weather-sensitive sector,” Keyamo said, explaining that decisions about flight plans, take-off, and landing are made with careful consideration of weather conditions. “Adverse weather—such as thunderstorms, squalls, wind shear, heavy rainfall, flash floods, sandstorms, dust haze, and fog—presents some of the greatest challenges to aviation. These can result in flight delays, injuries, economic losses, and even loss of life and property.”
Keyamo further cited data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which reported a rise in global flight delays due to weather conditions, from 11 per cent in 2012 to 30 per cent in 2023. He also referenced the International Civil Aviation Organisation, which has noted that while turbulence has long been a leading cause of in-flight injuries, there is growing scientific evidence suggesting that climate change may lead to more severe weather patterns, potentially increasing turbulence-related accidents.
The Minister stressed that the effects of climate change were negatively impacting the aviation industry and that early warning systems, supported by robust climate predictions, were crucial in addressing these challenges. He explained that these systems are key to ensuring safety, efficiency, and sustainability within air navigation operations.
Keyamo noted that NiMet’s SCP played a pivotal role by empowering stakeholders with the knowledge needed to anticipate and adapt to climate changes, thereby ensuring the continued smooth operation of aviation while safeguarding lives and property.
He also highlighted that a more resilient aviation sector contributes to broader socio-economic objectives, including trade facilitation, tourism, and regional connectivity.
“The SCP document we are unveiling today is a critical tool for informed decision-making. It offers insights into expected weather and climate patterns, equipping various sectors with the foresight needed to plan, mitigate risks, and seize opportunities,” he said.
The Minister further emphasised that sectors such as agriculture, disaster risk management, health, marine operations, transport, and particularly aviation, stand to benefit from this invaluable resource and advisory.
“Timely climate predictions will allow farmers to optimise farming schedules, thereby improving food system security,” he stated.
Keyamo explained that the document would also assist disaster managers in preparing for emergencies and minimising risks, as well as helping health authorities anticipate disease outbreaks linked to weather and climate variations. These examples, he noted, demonstrate the interconnectedness of weather, climate, and socio-economic resilience.
“Over recent years, we have continued to observe unprecedented weather patterns that have tested our preparedness and resilience. From consistent warmer-than-normal temperatures to flash floods, the extremes of our climate are increasingly evident. These events serve as reminders that we must remain vigilant and proactive,” he concluded.
