Keyamo, Ganduje Launch Green Airport Initiative at Lagos International Airport

By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo (SAN), and Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Board, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, CON, have launched a technology-driven green airport initiative at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos, alongside the commissioning of an upgraded Pilgrims’ Terminal aimed at improving environmental sustainability and passenger experience.

The initiatives, unveiled in the presence of the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FAAN, Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, form part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise airport infrastructure, promote sustainable aviation practices and enhance service delivery across Nigeria’s airports.

The Sustainable Waste Management Programme introduces indoor colour-coded digital recycling bins across MMIA terminals as the first phase of a three-stage circular economy initiative designed to reduce waste, promote recycling and lower carbon emissions within the nation’s aviation sector.

Speaking during the launch, Kuku described the programme as a significant departure from conventional waste disposal practices, noting that it represents a comprehensive transformation of airport waste management rather than the simple installation of recycling bins.

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According to her, the initiative supports FAAN’s drive to progress beyond Level Three of the Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Carbon Accreditation Programme while positioning Nigeria’s airports among leading environmentally sustainable aviation hubs.

She disclosed that MMIA generated 1,446 tonnes of waste in 2023 and 1,383 tonnes in 2024, with almost all of it previously disposed of in landfills without segregation or recycling.

Kuku explained that under the new system, waste would be sorted at the point of disposal before being transferred to designated collection points, where certified recycling companies would process plastics, glass, cans and organic waste into reusable materials.

She added that beyond its environmental benefits, the programme would reduce operational costs, create economic value through recycling and support future waste-to-energy initiatives, adding that the project would subsequently be extended to other international airports nationwide.

Commending the initiative, Keyamo said the programme aligns with the environmental sustainability agenda championed by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) and Airports Council International (ACI).

The minister disclosed that the Federal Government had directed contractors handling new airport projects to incorporate renewable energy technologies into airport infrastructure.

“I have directed the contractors handling the new Lagos terminal that the rooftops must be powered by solar panels to provide electricity for the non-aeronautical sections of the airport,” Keyamo said.

He described the initiative as another milestone in Nigeria’s transition towards greener, more efficient and environmentally responsible airport operations.

Also speaking, Dr. Ganduje described the programme as an innovative response to climate change, noting that effective recycling would reduce methane emissions from landfills while creating economic opportunities through resource recovery and electricity generation.

Following the launch, the dignitaries inspected the newly upgraded Pilgrims’ Terminal at MMIA, where they commended FAAN’s management for delivering a modern facility designed to improve the travel experience of intending pilgrims.

Keyamo said the upgraded terminal reflects President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Federal Government’s commitment to providing world-class aviation infrastructure that enhances passenger comfort, safety and operational efficiency.

Similarly, Dr. Ganduje praised FAAN’s management for sustaining investments in airport infrastructure and passenger services, describing the Authority’s achievements as a demonstration of professionalism, innovation and commitment to transforming Nigeria’s aviation sector.

The upgraded Pilgrims’ Terminal features a 300-seat passenger waiting area, modern VIP and VVIP lounges, free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fully air-conditioned mosque, and enhanced screening and scanning equipment to improve passenger processing and security.

FAAN said the terminal upgrade forms part of its broader infrastructure renewal programme aimed at delivering passenger-centred services that meet international best practices while supporting the Federal Government’s vision of building a safe, efficient and globally competitive aviation industry.