Dr Thomas Ogungbangbe, chairman of CITA Energies, has shared how he transformed a small business operated from his living room and car into an aviation fuel company with facilities valued at nearly $200 million.
Ogungbangbe recounted his entrepreneurial journey during the company's 20th anniversary celebration held at the Grandeur Event Centre in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday, October 16, 2026.
He explained that when the business started, he used his living room as an office and kept important company documents in his vehicle's boot and back seats.
What began as a modest operation has since grown into a major indigenous aviation fuel supplier, serving airports across Nigeria and customers in international markets.
According to Ogungbangbe, CITA Energies now operates at 17 airports spread across Nigeria's six geopolitical zones. Its international aviation fuel supply network also extends across several continents.
He described the company's growth as the result of determination, strategic partnerships, supportive government policies and the dedication of employees who helped build the business over the years.
The entrepreneur also highlighted the demands of the aviation fuel industry, explaining that supplying aircraft requires continuous operations, including weekends and public holidays.
He recalled how the business environment was challenging during the company's early years, with employees enduring difficult working conditions while establishing its operations.
CITA Energies was established in 2006, following Ogungbangbe's involvement in an earlier aviation fuel business associated with what later became part of the Sahara Group.
He also credited changes in government petroleum policies with creating opportunities for indigenous companies to compete in an industry previously dominated by multinational oil firms.
The anniversary celebration brought together aviation industry leaders, government representatives, business partners and traditional rulers to mark the company's two decades of operations.
Among those present were Ibom Air Managing Director George Uriesi, United Nigeria Airlines General Manager and Chief Operating Officer Rapheal Uchegbu, and CITA Energies Managing Director Titilayo Olaore.
Ogungbangbe said the milestone would not have been possible without the contributions of the company's pioneering employees, successive management teams, customers and business partners.
His story highlights how the company expanded from a small operation into a business with a nationwide airport presence and international reach.
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