FG Launches 150 Million-Litre Jet Fuel Depot

The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has officially launched the Joint User Hydrant Installation 2 (JUHI-2), a significant facility with a storage capacity of 150 million liters of Jet A1 fuel.

This depot is noted as the largest airside jet fuel depot in Nigeria and has the capacity to supply a minimum of 150 million liters of aviation fuel monthly, representing 20% of the country’s annual sales volume.

The JUHI-2 project is a collaborative effort involving several companies, including Eterna Plc, Masters Energy Oil & Gas, Techno Oil & Gas, Rahamaniyya Oil & Gas, Ibafon Oil, Quest Oil Group, and First Deep Water Limited.

During the commissioning ceremony in Ikeja, Lagos, Keyamo praised the initiative for enhancing Nigeria’s global relevance and recognition in the aviation sector.

Keyamo emphasized that the JUHI-2 facility would significantly address issues related to flight delays and cancellations, which have often been caused by fuel shortages.

He highlighted the strategic location of the depot, noting its proximity to both local and international airports, which aligns with international standards for aviation fuel supply.

This positioning is expected to enhance operational efficiency and ensure a reliable fuel supply for airlines, ultimately benefiting the aviation sector in Nigeria.

Keyamo proudly announced that Nigeria has been removed from the watchlist of non-compliant countries, having improved its aircraft financing rating from 70.5% to 75.5%.

This advancement allows Nigerian airlines to access aircraft on dry leases globally, enhancing their operational capabilities and competitiveness in the aviation market.

The minister emphasized that these developments reflect the government’s commitment to revitalizing the aviation sector and ensuring compliance with international standards.

Patience Dappa, Chairman of JUHI-2 Limited, highlighted that the facility will significantly bolster Nigeria’s energy security and establish a dependable jet fuel supply chain.

She emphasized that the depot is designed for rapid response and efficient refueling processes, which will minimize delays and enhance flight scheduling. This, she noted, will improve the competitiveness of Nigerian airports and airlines, positioning the country as a regional leader in aviation.

Abiola Lawal, Managing Director/CEO of Eterna Oil Plc, praised JUHI-2 for its cutting-edge technology, which ensures top-tier operational efficiency.

He noted that the facility can simultaneously accommodate four bridgers or aviation fuel trucks, a first for Nigeria. This capability enhances the depot’s capacity to respond swiftly to the fueling needs of airlines, further supporting the goal of reducing flight delays.

Bridget Gold, the Director of Legal Services at the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, remarked that the JUHI-2 fuel depot would be essential for enhancing operations within the aviation sector. She noted that the facility would improve service delivery and contribute to national economic growth by ensuring a stable and reliable supply of jet fuel for airlines.

This advancement is expected to boost overall efficiency in airport operations and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the aviation industry.