The Federal Government has instructed NAEBI Dynamic Concept to resume the collection of a $300 helicopter landing levy, reigniting controversy over the fee previously suspended by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.
A circular issued by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) authorised NAEBI to collect landing levies for air navigation services related to helicopter operations by oil companies at airfields, platforms, terminals, and rigs.
The decision has triggered fresh concerns among stakeholders, who continue to question the legality, necessity, and transparency of the levy.
The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has been particularly outspoken, insisting that NAEBI provides no tangible service to helicopter operators that would warrant such a fee.
The association argued that NAEBI’s current involvement is limited to helipad certification, for which it already charges, and pointed out that there is no legislative or regulatory backing to support the imposition of the landing levy.
In May 2024, Minister Keyamo had ordered the suspension of the levy to allow for a comprehensive review. However, the latest government directive not only lifts that suspension but also calls for full enforcement, prompting fresh concerns about the impact on the aviation sector and wider economy.
The return of the levy has reignited long-standing grievances over a lack of clarity and accountability in how the funds generated are managed and used. Industry players have consistently raised issues about the transparency of the entire process.
AON has also raised objections over the selection of NAEBI Dynamic Concept as the consultant appointed to manage the levy collection. The group expressed doubts about the company’s capacity to deliver value-added services that would justify the fee, and has called for a review of the concession agreement between the Federal Government and NAEBI.
Critics have also raised questions about the decision-making process behind the directive, particularly the role of the Minister and whether the move aligns with the best interests of the industry.
As implementation of the levy resumes, industry stakeholders are calling for immediate action to ensure greater transparency in both the collection and utilisation of the funds. There is also growing demand for an independent audit of the agreement with NAEBI to ensure that the arrangement does not undermine the operational and financial health of the aviation sector.
