Oil & Gas
THE Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (NUPENGASSAN) has condemned the recently introduced landing fees imposed on helicopter operators in the country.
The union, in a statement on Monday, expressed concerns as this was coming at a period of economic hardship on businesses and the citizenry.
The statement was signed by the General Secretary, NUPENG, Mr Afolabi Olawale, and General Secretary, PENGASSAN, Mr Lumumba Okugbawa.
Recently, the Federal Ministry of Aviation had directed helicopter operators to compulsorily pay for helicopter landing fees.
The memo was directed at all Nigerian aerodromes, helipads, airstrips, floating production storage and offloading (FPSO) units, floating storage and offloading (FSO) units and other oil platforms.
“We strongly condemn this decision by the Federal Ministry of Aviation to impose exorbitant fees on helicopter operators during this period of economic hardship on businesses and the citizenry.
“These new charges, which include a four per cent charge on the gross revenue of helicopter operators, as well as additional levies and taxes, pose a grave threat to the sustainability and viability of the helicopter transport sector that is critical to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“This is very insensitive at a time when the government is shopping for investors in the oil and gas industry and muting various incentives to make the industry attractive, “ the leaders said.
Both leaders said that the oil and gas industry was a critical component of Nigeria’s economy.
According to them, the helicopter operators serving this sector play a vital role in its success.
“These operators provide essential transportation services, moving personnel and equipment to offshore platforms and remote locations, ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of the industry, “ the duo said.
The leaders, therefore, urged the ministry to immediately withdraw the landing fees on helicopter operators servicing the oil and gas industry.
According to them, this will not only provide much-needed relief to the sector but also demonstrate commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment and supporting the growth and development of this crucial industry.
“We look forward to the government through the Ministry of Aviation prompt attention and decisive action to address this pressing issue as failure to act swiftly will certainly pose a grave danger to the industrial harmony that is currently enjoyed in this sector, “ the duo said
F.A
May 20, 2024
Tags: oil workers withdrawal of helicopter fees
