The Federal Government has directed NAEBI Dynamic Concept to commence collection of a $300 helicopter landing levy, despite previous controversy and suspension of the levy by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo.

A circular from the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA) empowered NAEBI Dynamic Concept to collect landing levies for air navigation services related to helicopter operations by oil companies at airfields, platforms, terminals, and rigs.

The directive has sparked renewed debate, with stakeholders questioning the legality and justification of the fee.

The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has been particularly vocal, arguing that NAEBI does not provide any service to helicopter operators that would justify the imposition of such a fee. AON posits that NAEBI?s role is limited to certifying helipads, for which it charges a certification fee, and that there is no legal framework to support the collection of the levy.

The Minister had suspended the levy in May 2024 pending a review, but the government has now lifted the suspension and directed strict compliance. The development has raised concerns about the potential impact on the aviation industry and the economy. As the collection of the levy commences, stakeholders are eagerly watching to see how the situation unfolds.

The controversy surrounding the levy is not new, as stakeholders have previously expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the collection and utilisation of the funds generated from the levy.

The AON had also questioned the choice of NAEBI Dynamic Concept as the consultant to collect the levy, citing concerns about the company?s ability to provide value-added services to justify the fee.

The Federal Government?s decision to lift the suspension and direct strict compliance has been met with skepticism by industry stakeholders, who are worried about the potential implications for the aviation sector. The development has also raised questions about the Minister?s role in the decision-making process and whether the government?s directive is in the best interest of the industry.

As the situation continues to unfold, stakeholders are calling for greater transparency and accountability in the collection and utilisation of the levy.

They are also demanding a review of the concession agreement between the Federal Government and NAEBI Dynamic Concept to ensure that the interests of all parties are protected. (BusinessDay)

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