In an ambitious push toward energy independence, Nigeria is turning its sights skyward, launching a national strategy to produce renewable aviation fuel. Its production could transform both its transport sector and green economy.
The move comes as Africa’s largest oil producer continues grappling with paradoxical jet fuel shortages that force costly imports. Officials unveiled a six-pillar plan during a recent Abuja workshop supported by the National Climate Change Council and EU aviation experts. It targets everything from regulatory frameworks to biomass sourcing.
“This isn’t just about keeping planes in the air,” explains Bukola Teriba of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority. “We’re positioning Nigeria as continental leader in sustainable aviation while creating agricultural opportunities on the ground.”
The numbers reveal an urgent need for change: while aviation fuel imports dropped 87% to ₦31 billion ($19.4M) last quarter, reliance on foreign supplies continues bleeding precious forex. The renewable fuel initiative could kill two birds with one stone. Apart from stabilizing the aviation sector, it can achieve the following:
- Creating biomass value chains for farmers
- Attracting green manufacturing investments
- Cutting transport sector emissions
Success hinges on mobilizing Nigeria’s agricultural strengths into jet fuel production. However, the dedicated working groups are now tackling financing, logistics, and innovation hurdles, a bold vision that may soon help Africa’s energy solutions indeed take flight.
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