In a significant push for environmental sustainability, Nigeria is taking a leading role in securing funding for the production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) across Africa. This move aligns with the global goal set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in air travel by 2050, reports News Central.
From May 5th to 9th, 2025, the Nigerian government hosted a high-level regional workshop in Lagos State focused on unlocking investment for SAF production. The event was organised by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) in partnership with the National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).
The hybrid-format workshop brought together participants from 14 African countries, as well as SAF project developers and international financial institutions. Led by Mrs. Yinka Iriobe from the NCAA’s Directorate of Air Transport Regulations, discussions centred on reducing investment risks, improving project bankability, and developing sustainable financing mechanisms.
A key highlight was the inauguration of six Technical Working Groups (TWGs) by NCAA Director-General Captain Chris Najomo. These groups will oversee Nigeria’s SAF development in crucial areas: Policy and Regulation, Feedstock and Production, Funding and Investment, Technology and Innovation, Environmental and Social Impact, and Infrastructure and Logistics.
The final two days of the workshop focused on building Nigeria’s domestic SAF roadmap. Participants examined project financing strategies, capacity building, and ways to ensure access to sustainable energy for aviation.
The event was part of the ACT-SAF Africa-India Project (Part II), which aims to strengthen SAF development through assistance, training, and knowledge sharing. Presentations from developers and financiers highlighted the urgent need for effective risk mitigation and cross-sector collaboration to make SAF production viable in Africa.
Participants explored the SAF supply chain, available financing tools, and best practices in sustainable investment. They also mapped key stakeholders and identified existing financial instruments that could support SAF-related projects.
Delivering the keynote on behalf of Captain Najomo, NCAA Lagos Regional Manager Barrister Bukola Teriba emphasized the importance of financing in advancing SAF initiatives, noting that access to funding is essential for reducing the aviation industry’s environmental impact.
