The Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON) has described the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals as a critical pillar of support for Nigeria’s aviation industry, stressing that the refinery currently supplies over 95 per cent of the Jet A1 fuel consumed nationwide, while also exporting 1.1 billion litres of aviation fuel to Europe between March and April 20.

Speaking during an interview, AON spokesperson, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, said the refinery’s output has played a significant role in sustaining domestic airline operations at a time of global supply disruptions arising from tensions in the Middle-East and rising fuel costs.

“It is a matter of fact that over 95 per cent of aviation fuel supplied across the country comes from the Dangote refinery. 

“To airline operators in Nigeria, Dangote is not just a refinery; it is a game changer and, indeed, a lifesaver,” Okonkwo said.

He noted that despite the refinery’s consistent supply, airlines continue to face severe operational strain due to escalating Jet A1 prices, which he attributed to sharp practices within the downstream distribution chain.

According to Okonkwo, some fuel marketers are allegedly creating artificial scarcity in spite of available supply from the refinery, leading to disproportionate price increases.

He disclosed that airline operators have recorded Jet A1 price hikes of up to 300 per cent since the onset of the Middle-East crisis.

Echoing these concerns after a closed‑door meeting between the AON and the federal government, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Chief Allen Onyema, described the situation as deeply troubling, particularly given that the Dangote refinery sells its products at comparatively lower rates.

“The truth is that marketers must be called to account. How do prices rise by as much as 300 per cent when Dangote’s supply remains the cheapest and some marketers source directly from the refinery?” Onyema asked.