More details are emerging on the scope of Nigeria’s military partnership with the U.S, amid. Reports indicate that the U.S has requested permission to establish a drone refueling station in Nigeria. The facility would support U.S. drones operating out of Accra, Ghana, from where America currently conduct ISR flights over large swathes of Nigerian territory.
While the specific platforms involved have not been officially disclosed, its most likely the MQ-9 Reaper. These drones are powered by Honeywell TPE331-10 turboprop engines and typically run on JP-8 or similar kerosene based fuels.
Discussions are said to be at an advanced stage, with a state in Nigeria’s North East designated as the host. Although the U.S reportedly proposed Lagos or Abuja to host the station, both were ruled out due to political and security sensitivities. The North East was selected because it already hosts Nigeria’s own drone operations and selected infrastructure.
If approved, the refueling station would enable the U.S. to operate more efficiently from Ghana, while flying into Nigeria to coordinate intelligence support and operational planning with Nigerian forces.
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