The International Oil Companies (IOCs) and Local Oil Companies (LOCs), under the umbrella of the Oil Producers Trade Section (OPTS), convened a crucial meeting in Abuja to discuss the framework for navigational services and the ongoing review of helicopter landing levies. This meeting followed the establishment of a ministerial committee by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to assess these levies, which are collected by NAEBI Dynamic Concepts Limited, an agent appointed by the Ministry.
The gathering, initiated by the OPTS and primarily involving IOCs, focused on developing a framework that addresses key aspects such as facilities, building and navigational equipment, and the training of youths already engaged by the IOCs. The companies were also encouraged to integrate NAEBI Dynamic Concepts into their community relations efforts, underscoring the importance of collaboration for improved outcomes.
The helicopter landing levies, which target IOCs and LOCs rather than airline operators, are part of a broader strategy to generate government revenue and enhance national security. These levies apply to oil fields, terminals, platforms, rigs, floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units, helipads, airstrips, and aerodromes, in accordance with global conventions and international best practices.
Legal backing for these levies is rooted in the amended NAMA Act 2023, specifically Section 8(1)(a), which mandates the provision of air traffic services in Nigeria and other areas where Nigeria is responsible for air navigation. Additionally, Section 8(1)(w) of the amended NAMA Act 1999 empowers the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) to charge for all services provided. Section 16 further allows NAMA to collaborate with experts and specialized agencies to fulfill its functions.
An anonymous source from the meeting disclosed that the ministerial committee, which includes representatives from both IOCs and LOCs, may have agreed to retain the helicopter landing levies. The source cited strong evidence and empirical data supporting the initiative, as detailed in the committee’s report. The benefits of the levies, including job creation, legal support, and broader economic advantages, were deemed to outweigh any potential concerns.
The meeting was held in the wake of initial complaints from the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON), which led the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, to temporarily suspend NAEBI Dynamic Concepts’ approval. A ministerial committee was then formed to address these issues and provide recommendations. The committee’s findings are now eagerly awaited, with indications that the levies might be reviewed or concessions granted to IOCs.
Among the companies that participated in the meeting were major players like Agip, Shell, Total, Mobil, Elf, and Chevron, either in person or virtually. The industry now awaits further directives from the Minister regarding the final decision on the helicopter landing levies.
