NUPRC Retains $300 Helicopter Levy, Clarifies Offshore Navigational Charges

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has confirmed the continuation of the $300 per-landing helicopter levy imposed on upstream operators for air navigational services. This decision provides clarity to oil companies and helicopter service providers following months of uncertainty regarding aviation charges related to offshore petroleum operations.

In a circular dated August 28, 2026, the NUPRC explicitly ruled that while the $300 levy remains applicable, the separate Terminal Navigational Charge does not apply to helicopter landings at private offshore facilities and oil platforms. The directive urges all upstream petroleum operators, licensees, lessees, and helicopter service providers to align their contracts, invoices, and cost-recovery arrangements accordingly.

The circular, signed by NUPRC’s Chief Executive Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan and obtained by industry correspondents, addresses longstanding concerns raised by upstream stakeholders about the introduction, structure, and enforcement of the helicopter levy. These concerns prompted a comprehensive review process involving key government and regulatory agencies.

Ministerial Review Committee and Stakeholder Engagement

On March 9, 2026, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, established a Ministerial Review Committee to examine the disputed aviation charges. The committee comprised representatives from the NUPRC, Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Office of the National Security Adviser, Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA), and NAMA’s appointed collection consultant.

The committee’s mandate was to assess the appropriateness and implementation of the helicopter levy and terminal navigational charges in the context of offshore petroleum operations. After thorough evaluation, the committee upheld the $300 per-landing helicopter levy, affirming it should continue to be paid to NAMA through its approved collection mechanism.

Implications for Offshore Operators and Service Providers

This ruling resolves ambiguity in the offshore sector, ensuring that operators and helicopter service providers have a clear framework for aviation-related cost recovery. The exclusion of the Terminal Navigational Charge for helicopter landings at private offshore facilities reduces unnecessary financial burdens and aligns charges with operational realities.

Industry participants are now expected to review and update their contractual agreements and invoicing processes to reflect the clarified regulatory position. This alignment is critical for maintaining compliance and fostering transparent financial arrangements within upstream petroleum activities.

The NUPRC’s decision underscores its commitment to balancing regulatory oversight with industry concerns, promoting a stable operational environment for Nigeria’s vital offshore petroleum sector.