The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to helicopter operators in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, demanding compliance with helicopter landing levies or risk losing flight clearance. Operators have been given seven days to submit their payment plans and modalities to Naebi Concepts Limited, the firm authorized to collect the charges on behalf of the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA).

The announcement, published in a public notice by NAMA, signals the government’s intent to enforce regulatory compliance, enhance national security, and sustain aviation infrastructure in line with global best practices.

Why the Levy Matters

Since 2022, NAMA has consistently engaged operators on the statutory landing levies, but compliance has been slow. The charges apply to helicopter flights landing at oil fields, platforms, rigs, FPSOs, helipads, airstrips, and aerodromes across Nigeria.

According to the agency, Sections 8 and 9 of the NAMA Act (2022) clearly empower it to manage air navigation services across Nigerian airspace. No other party is allowed to provide these services without NAMA's approval.

NAMA warned that operators who continue to bypass official clearance procedures and land helicopters at private platforms without paying fees are violating national security protocols. Sanctions—including denial of flight clearance and shutdown of unauthorized helipads—will be enforced.

“This is not just about money—it’s about safety, accountability, and sustainability of our aviation system,” the notice read.

Backing from Aviation Experts

Hassan Tai Ejibunu, a former Director at the Ministry of Aviation, backed the government's move. He explained that the levies are vital to maintaining and upgrading air navigation systems used by both civil and military aviation.

“The oil industry depends on helicopters, which in turn rely on NAMA’s radar, communication systems, and air traffic control. If we don’t maintain this infrastructure, the consequences could be disastrous,” he said.

Ejibunu emphasized that the charges are pay-as-you-use, not flat fees, and are in line with international practices where users fund aviation systems through similar contributions.

He argued that multinationals operating offshore should not be exempt, especially as their safety and logistics rely heavily on NAMA’s infrastructure.

“This levy isn’t a burden—it’s an investment in security, safety, and the smooth functioning of a high-risk, high-reward sector.”

Global Standards, Local Impact

Countries in Europe, Asia, and the Americas already implement such levies. Nigeria’s efforts are part of a broader strategy to strengthen aviation oversight, embrace digital monitoring, and prepare for the rise of drones and advanced air mobility systems.

NAMA said the revenue from these levies will be used to:

Upgrade radar and communication infrastructure

Improve surveillance and air traffic safety

Ensure better coordination for both civil and military aviation needs

✅ Bottom Line:
The Federal Government has drawn a line—pay the helicopter landing levies or lose airspace access. With only seven days to comply, stakeholders in the oil and gas sector must now decide whether to support the nation’s aviation future—or face operational disruptions.