The growing aviation fuel black market in Nigeria has continued to pose a significant threat to aviation safety, Chris Ndulue, Chairman of Ndano Energy and former Managing Director of Arik Air, has said.
According to Ndulue, with low entry barriers in the aviation fuel market, small marketers have emerged, and some resort to stealing aviation fuel to sell on the black market.
Ndule stressed the need for the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to bolster its regulatory framework and scrutinise the entire supply chain, from procurement to delivery, to prevent such malpractices.
He underscored the importance of ensuring that marketers operate in a manner that prioritises safety, security, and quality.
Speaking during the Gateway Colloquium organised by CITA in partnership with the League of Airports and Aviation Correspondence (LAAC), themed ‘Aviation Fuel Business: The Scenario and the Metaphor,’ Ndulue said NCAA has to ensure the safety and ability of marketers to run their business in such a way that nothing is compromised.
“You will see that there are so many aviation fuel marketers in Nigeria. The NCAA has to look at economic and financial health of fuel marketers. If an operator buys from those who steal the product, the operator will be providing a black market for aviation fuel.
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“The black market is increasing as we see a multiplicity of small marketers. People jump into the business. We need to ensure the business guarantees safety, security and quality of aviation fuel. We need to focus on what we can do to provide regulations and guarantee the quality and safety of products the airlines are getting,” Ndulue said.
He advocated for increased collaboration among marketers to foster a sector that prioritises safety, security, and quality. He emphasised the need for stakeholders to work together to develop regulations that guarantee the quality and safety of aviation fuel.
Festus Keyamo, minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, said aviation fuel sits at the very heart of airline operations, as it does not only represent a key cost driver for airlines but also a strategic index of national logistics and economic vitality.
Keyamo said the scenario reminds us of the present realities: fluctuating prices, supply vulnerabilities, and infrastructural challenges; while the “metaphor” calls stakeholders to look beyond the surface: to envision a new energy paradigm that supports growth, innovation, and environmental responsibility in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Keyamo who was represented by Henry Agbebire, Director, public affairs and Consumer Protection FAAN said as a Ministry, it remain committed to policies and partnerships that will ensure the availability, accessibility, and affordability of aviation fuel.
“We are equally focused on promoting dialogue between government, oil marketers, and airline operators to create a fair and transparent fuel supply chain that supports both economic sustainability and operational excellence.
“This conversation today is more than an analysis of challenges; it’s an opportunity to shape solutions. I encourage all participants to speak freely, think boldly, and help chart a course that will make Nigerian aviation stronger and more sustainable,” the aviation minister said.
