NAMA has given oil firms seven days to settle unpaid helicopter landing fees or face tough sanctions, including flight clearance denials and shutdown of unauthorised helipads.
Citing national security and regulatory breaches, the agency says the move is essential to restore order in Nigeria’s airspace and ensure critical infrastructure is adequately funded.
Previously, the government suspended the controversial $300 levy in May 2024 through Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo.
However, the suspension has now been lifted, and NAMA has resumed enforcement.
The fee targets helicopter operations at oil fields, rigs, terminals, FPSOs, helipads, and aerodromes under the NAMA Act of 2022.
Ignored Warnings
Since 2022, NAMA and its revenue consultant, Naebi Dynamic Concepts Ltd, have repeatedly reached out to operators.
Yet many companies have ignored the directive, while some have deliberately obstructed regulatory efforts.
Tough Enforcement Measures
As a result, NAMA has threatened to deny flight clearances to non-compliant operators.
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In addition, if companies continue to use Nigerian airspace unlawfully—especially from unapproved private helipads—NAMA will request ministerial approval to shut down and relocate those facilities.
NAMA clarified that the levy aligns with international standards observed by ICAO member states.
The agency needs these funds to maintain and upgrade air navigation infrastructure, especially as helicopter and drone activity grows.
Under Sections 8 and 9 of the NAMA Act, NAMA alone holds the authority to manage air navigation services.
Therefore, the agency urged all affected oil firms to contact Naebi within seven days and submit their payment plans.
Ultimately, NAMA emphasised that this push goes beyond revenue collection—it aims to enforce aviation safety, protect national security, and uphold Nigeria’s obligations to global aviation standards.
