The Federal Government of Nigeria has inaugurated the Joint User Hydrant Installation 2 (JUHI-2), a monumental facility designed to bolster the country’s aviation industry. With an impressive storage capacity of 150 million liters of Jet A1 fuel, JUHI-2 stands as the largest airside jet fuel depot in Nigeria.
The unveiling ceremony, led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, highlighted the facility’s potential to revolutionize jet fuel supply to airlines.
Capable of delivering 150 million liters of Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK) monthly, JUHI-2 is set to account for 20% of Nigeria’s annual jet fuel sales, significantly alleviating persistent fuel shortages that have plagued the sector.
In his address, Keyamo emphasised the strategic importance of the JUHI-2 project, noting its potential to mitigate flight delays and cancellations attributed to Jet A1 fuel shortages.
“This facility is strategic and supportive to the aviation ecosystem in Nigeria. We normally experience a lot of flight cancellations and delays, often due to a lack of Jet A1 fuel,” he stated.
Keyamo further pointed out that the establishment of such a facility aligns with international aviation requirements, ensuring that Nigeria remains competitive on the global stage.
“It is also a requirement for hajj operations. Before any airport is approved for hajj operations, they ensure that such facilities are very close to the airport,” he added.
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, marking a significant investment in the nation’s aviation infrastructure.
In a further boost to Nigeria’s aviation sector, Keyamo announced that the country has been removed from the watchlist of non-compliant nations after achieving a 75.5% score in aircraft financing, up from 70.5%. This improvement allows Nigerian airlines to access aircraft on dry leases globally, enhancing their operational capabilities.
As Nigeria’s aviation landscape continues to evolve, the JUHI-2 facility promises to play a crucial role in ensuring the industry’s sustainability and growth, reinforcing the nation’s position as a key player in the African aviation market.
