What's New In W. Africa (Nigeria)
Join Date: Oct 2002
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From the reports from my Nigerian compatriots, reputedly ACN and CHC are struggling over sums well in excess of $50 million dollars and rising!
The immediate effect of this is sliding the closing of the sale into July, but now no-one seems really sure when, or how, this will be resolved.
Of course, none of this may be correct; so I do wait to hear any updates!
The immediate effect of this is sliding the closing of the sale into July, but now no-one seems really sure when, or how, this will be resolved.
Of course, none of this may be correct; so I do wait to hear any updates!
Join Date: Dec 2003
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r-r,
I hear more than $100 million now! Na wah oh, some Jinta is working here
.
Agbami is still not announced, but it seems more likely it will be awarded to just one company now.
Bristow Nigeria new Managing Director is now in Nigeria. Another accountant recruited from Baker Hughes, but this time a Brit and at least he's been in Nigeria for a few years already. Don't expect to see many changes here then. More people in both Bristow and CHC now seem to have realised that there are now well paid jobs around outside of Nigeria and, tired of the BS about how better days are coming, are now leaving. It's interesting that quite a few of the recent incomers to Bristow from Abu Dhabi Aviation are now returning there, despite the slagging off that company always gets here. Another one quit to go back there again this week. The way things are going even Caverton will get some applications from CHC and Bristow people - okay, that's going too far..... but I must admit to liking the idea of my Kia Sedona jeep, even if I do have to change to a larger shoe size
. When you hear of some of the big hitters like chuks, 212 man and doc going there it certainly does make you think doesn't it?
I hear more than $100 million now! Na wah oh, some Jinta is working here
. Agbami is still not announced, but it seems more likely it will be awarded to just one company now.
Bristow Nigeria new Managing Director is now in Nigeria. Another accountant recruited from Baker Hughes, but this time a Brit and at least he's been in Nigeria for a few years already. Don't expect to see many changes here then. More people in both Bristow and CHC now seem to have realised that there are now well paid jobs around outside of Nigeria and, tired of the BS about how better days are coming, are now leaving. It's interesting that quite a few of the recent incomers to Bristow from Abu Dhabi Aviation are now returning there, despite the slagging off that company always gets here. Another one quit to go back there again this week. The way things are going even Caverton will get some applications from CHC and Bristow people - okay, that's going too far..... but I must admit to liking the idea of my Kia Sedona jeep, even if I do have to change to a larger shoe size
. When you hear of some of the big hitters like chuks, 212 man and doc going there it certainly does make you think doesn't it?
Join Date: Apr 2003
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Whatever Tokunbo is smoking...
I want some!
I was just out there practicing a medevac in the middle of a small sandstorm, loading two guys playing car crash victims on spinal boards in a Twotter. I got back here hot, tired and sandy, needing some cheering up and here it is! I am a what, "heavy hitter"? Nawao!
Well, yes, I do have an extensive background in helicopter flying; just ask Doc if you don't believe me. Too, there must be a few people on the Lagos scene I haven't wound up yet, so... When do I start?
I reckon the Bajaj will be the standby machine for the luxury shuttle service to downtown Lagos which must be starting any time from now, yes? Mechanical breakdowns, IMC, whatever, just walk 'em across the ramp and load 'em up; they will hardly know the difference until we cross the runway and go bumping off through the bush towards the old Concord Press complex.
I can just see myself out there in the pointy shoes, four-bar epaulettes, white shirt made from a bed sheet... the very body and soul of professionalism. Is there room in that thing to wear a hat? I need a hat. And a noise-cancelling headset. That too.
One thing: this is a new Bajaj, right? Not a Tokunbo Bajaj please; I do have standards, you know!
Things at Hassi Messaoud are going downhill. First there was one B-206L and now there are two. This is how things started in Lagos, you know. Just the odd helo now and then but now they have taken over completely, or so I have been told.
I was just out there practicing a medevac in the middle of a small sandstorm, loading two guys playing car crash victims on spinal boards in a Twotter. I got back here hot, tired and sandy, needing some cheering up and here it is! I am a what, "heavy hitter"? Nawao!
Well, yes, I do have an extensive background in helicopter flying; just ask Doc if you don't believe me. Too, there must be a few people on the Lagos scene I haven't wound up yet, so... When do I start?
I reckon the Bajaj will be the standby machine for the luxury shuttle service to downtown Lagos which must be starting any time from now, yes? Mechanical breakdowns, IMC, whatever, just walk 'em across the ramp and load 'em up; they will hardly know the difference until we cross the runway and go bumping off through the bush towards the old Concord Press complex.
I can just see myself out there in the pointy shoes, four-bar epaulettes, white shirt made from a bed sheet... the very body and soul of professionalism. Is there room in that thing to wear a hat? I need a hat. And a noise-cancelling headset. That too.
One thing: this is a new Bajaj, right? Not a Tokunbo Bajaj please; I do have standards, you know!
Things at Hassi Messaoud are going downhill. First there was one B-206L and now there are two. This is how things started in Lagos, you know. Just the odd helo now and then but now they have taken over completely, or so I have been told.
Chuks,
I have heard from reliable sources that when employed by the "Centre of Excellence" one wears five bars to indicate one's level of experience and learning is quite superior to other mere "Captains" who fail to meet the demanding mark of Daddy. It is just not pointy toed shoes that identify quality in the Lagos aviation scene.
I have heard from reliable sources that when employed by the "Centre of Excellence" one wears five bars to indicate one's level of experience and learning is quite superior to other mere "Captains" who fail to meet the demanding mark of Daddy. It is just not pointy toed shoes that identify quality in the Lagos aviation scene.
Join Date: Dec 2003
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The new Bristow MD is going to have some hard work. It may be that Neddy Holdon made the company very profitable but does anyone think that oil companies like being threatened? With only the 2 companies to chose from in Nigeria, maybe they don't mind and I'm sure they'll make sure Aero (whether on its own or in co-operation with a company other than CHC) keeps going so there is some credible opposition to Bristow. Pilots and engineers continue to leave Bristow faster than they can be replaced and most of them are now getting work outside Nigeria, especially in Australia (where Bristow pilots have received a substantial payrise which now makes it worthwhile going there) and back in the Middle East (where the money is less, but the danger is too and the way of life much nicer).
CHC pilots may not have had their bonuses paid, but they are expecting a large payrise when their new rates are announced shortly. Much has been said about the CHC deathcamp, but this has now been abandoned and although the houses in Areta are old, at least everyone has a room with an en-suite bathroom and full meals are provided (even at work) free of charge by the company. All employees enjoy free internet access both at work and in their houses. With Bristow the housing ranges from the good to the truly awful and how the guys at Eket put up with the dump they exist in is beyond me
. There is much talk in Bristow of what happens when the S92s arrive, but so far, even though they have pilots and engineers away on courses, there is no sign of them actually coming. There are plenty of old underpowered, rattletrap early model 412 and 76s though. OK, Aero has quite a few old 365s, but the majority of them now are N3s and all the 76s are C+ models and the 2 EC225s will be seen here very soon. Actions speak louder than words!
CHC pilots may not have had their bonuses paid, but they are expecting a large payrise when their new rates are announced shortly. Much has been said about the CHC deathcamp, but this has now been abandoned and although the houses in Areta are old, at least everyone has a room with an en-suite bathroom and full meals are provided (even at work) free of charge by the company. All employees enjoy free internet access both at work and in their houses. With Bristow the housing ranges from the good to the truly awful and how the guys at Eket put up with the dump they exist in is beyond me
. There is much talk in Bristow of what happens when the S92s arrive, but so far, even though they have pilots and engineers away on courses, there is no sign of them actually coming. There are plenty of old underpowered, rattletrap early model 412 and 76s though. OK, Aero has quite a few old 365s, but the majority of them now are N3s and all the 76s are C+ models and the 2 EC225s will be seen here very soon. Actions speak louder than words!
When you hear of some of the big hitters like chuks, 212 man and doc going there it certainly does make you think doesn't it?
) How can you include us in the same sentence as a big hitter 328 ogha - we are not worthy
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Despite all the problems CHC seems to have in Nigeria at the moment, at least they have published pay scales unlike Bristow where nobody knows what the scales are and everyone seems to join on a special deal. CHC pay scales are available for anyone to view and when the pay review is announced it will be in open view for everyone. Bristow claims to be transparent and to communicate with employees, but try getting any information from them about pay scales and you'll be met with evasions. Most memos with information are of the 'eat before reading' variety 
. No wonder people are leaving both companies in Nigeria at the moment. Whoever wins the Agbami contract will find it hard to get the number of people needed.
. No wonder people are leaving both companies in Nigeria at the moment. Whoever wins the Agbami contract will find it hard to get the number of people needed.
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Nigeria...NOW??
Okay...okay...been reading all the past posts on Nigeria....so what is the situation as far as security...and pay for a Engineer working for Bristow............now.???? Any updates on the housing situtation??? Is it worthwhile to consider going there for an Engineer??
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It depend which base you go to. CHC pay better. If you go to Lagos you can have a nice time to sit in the bar if you are one of the inn crowd, but if not you have to visit the bush bars outside as you will be made to feel unwelcome. Are you old? If you are young and have no friend there allready you may be made to feel very unwelcome. From which country are you? If you are from the wrong one you will be made to feel very unwelcome and treated as if you do not know anything.
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Sharp collector - anyplace is what you make of it.
If you are at all able to analyse yourself honestly you can answer your own questions.
There is lots or work available for those that want it and we welcome new blood. Come on in!
If you are a self confessed asshole stay away please.
Living conditions no worse than anywhere else. Security a damm site better than South Africa
If you are at all able to analyse yourself honestly you can answer your own questions.
There is lots or work available for those that want it and we welcome new blood. Come on in!
If you are a self confessed asshole stay away please.
Living conditions no worse than anywhere else. Security a damm site better than South Africa
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Truly motivated?
BB
Many of us could save ourselves, and a potential employer, a lot of time and hazzle, if we had some idea of what we really are applying for. (In short: the dough.)
Today, that piece of information seems not possible to obtain without your logging in with a full CV.
If you, somewhere along the way should feel, after all, that Nigeria, may not be your cup of tea, you may or may not have spilled your chance for work elsewhere.
So in short, what are the payscales. Would it be possible to see an example of recent and relevant payscales ? Before mailing that application ?
Anjouan,
Just for info: I've googled for Chc payscales "open for anyone to see", without much success.
Thanks everyone.
s92driver
Many of us could save ourselves, and a potential employer, a lot of time and hazzle, if we had some idea of what we really are applying for. (In short: the dough.)
Today, that piece of information seems not possible to obtain without your logging in with a full CV.
If you, somewhere along the way should feel, after all, that Nigeria, may not be your cup of tea, you may or may not have spilled your chance for work elsewhere.
So in short, what are the payscales. Would it be possible to see an example of recent and relevant payscales ? Before mailing that application ?
Anjouan,
Just for info: I've googled for Chc payscales "open for anyone to see", without much success.
Thanks everyone.
s92driver
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CHC Nigeria payscales
As a ball park figure a CHC captain in Nigeria is on around C$110,000 annually (CHC pays local tax). You'll get $20-30,000 less per year at their other bases, depending on the location. I'm pretty sure the engineer pay scales are the same.
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s61n,
As I'm sure you realise few companies publish their pay scales in the public domain. I'm sure anjo is just referring to the fact that if you work for CHC rhe pay scales are freely available and when they are reviewed are circulated for all to see. As I understand it, Bristow pay rates are a secret known to very few, carefully guarded and if anything is ever put on paper it's as stated, an eat before reading issue.
One of my friends there has just told me about their local allowance, which was circulated by people being called into offices to read a memo. They've still got it all wrong though because everyone gets something different exactly as before. All that's happened is that now a different group of people is disaffected
With CHC everyone gets the same. With the exception of a very few ex-Schreiner guys on 'grandfather rights' who get a food allowance, everyone is provided with 3 meals a day and all found. With Bristow it depends which base you're on a what special deal you've managed to negotiate (wearing a blue apron and having a funny handshake is still supposed to be a great help ).
Engineers pay with CHC is much the same as that of pilots and in general is much better (except for engineers who have been with Bristow a long time. The only problem at present is that CHC have a few too many engineers and if they fail to get Agbami or Akpo that is unlikely to change. If Bristow gets its S92s in Nigeria they will have a greater shortage of engineers than they do now. I'm told that they fly all the aircraft based in Port Harcourt to other bases because they can't get enough engineers to work there as it's so unpopular
As I'm sure you realise few companies publish their pay scales in the public domain. I'm sure anjo is just referring to the fact that if you work for CHC rhe pay scales are freely available and when they are reviewed are circulated for all to see. As I understand it, Bristow pay rates are a secret known to very few, carefully guarded and if anything is ever put on paper it's as stated, an eat before reading issue.
One of my friends there has just told me about their local allowance, which was circulated by people being called into offices to read a memo. They've still got it all wrong though because everyone gets something different exactly as before. All that's happened is that now a different group of people is disaffected
With CHC everyone gets the same. With the exception of a very few ex-Schreiner guys on 'grandfather rights' who get a food allowance, everyone is provided with 3 meals a day and all found. With Bristow it depends which base you're on a what special deal you've managed to negotiate (wearing a blue apron and having a funny handshake is still supposed to be a great help ).Engineers pay with CHC is much the same as that of pilots and in general is much better (except for engineers who have been with Bristow a long time. The only problem at present is that CHC have a few too many engineers and if they fail to get Agbami or Akpo that is unlikely to change. If Bristow gets its S92s in Nigeria they will have a greater shortage of engineers than they do now. I'm told that they fly all the aircraft based in Port Harcourt to other bases because they can't get enough engineers to work there as it's so unpopular
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The following only applies for the biggest heli company in Nigeria. I won't quote exact figures because I can't quote the legal aspects of doing so but I guess you are in the ball park for a first year new yet experiienced cojoe at approx 100kusd p/a and approx 110k for a Capt.
This includes all travel, transport, medical, pension and a further $3000 p/a for daily food allowance.
The rest depends on how long you stay (increase 2 times per year) and is of course for working 50% of the year.
What else ?????? do you want to know????
This includes all travel, transport, medical, pension and a further $3000 p/a for daily food allowance.
The rest depends on how long you stay (increase 2 times per year) and is of course for working 50% of the year.
What else ?????? do you want to know????
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casual question
Is there an age limit for working in Nigeria? Do either of the big operators make it a point not to hire over a certain age? Also, how do US pilots get around the whole "type rating" issue? I inquired a few years ago (before I hit age 60) and was asked if I had a type rating in the 412 even though I had about 3500 hours of 412 time. In the US we don't get type ratings for less then 17,500lbs. I didn't pursue it then as I decided I didnt want to go to Nigeria anyway...lol
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Tks
Thank you kindly, gentlemen.
The ballpark figures you've given is just fine for a start.
I've followed this line with great interest for a long time, so believe I've received fair waring as regards to the security in the aerea, ....if/when.
If someone could bear with me and also add an asessment of Nigerian taxes,- or is that maybe the responsibility of the operator?
..and confirm that the paperwork regarding licences etc takes at least couple of months, - again if?
And yes Mama, I suspected as much.
However, I've been amazed again and again as to the extent of information it is possible to comb out with just a few right search words. So I guess I tried.
Anyway thanks for sharing all that intricate and highly interesting background stuff with us all this time.
Best regards all
s61
The ballpark figures you've given is just fine for a start.
I've followed this line with great interest for a long time, so believe I've received fair waring as regards to the security in the aerea, ....if/when.
If someone could bear with me and also add an asessment of Nigerian taxes,- or is that maybe the responsibility of the operator?
..and confirm that the paperwork regarding licences etc takes at least couple of months, - again if?
And yes Mama, I suspected as much.
However, I've been amazed again and again as to the extent of information it is possible to comb out with just a few right search words. So I guess I tried.
Anyway thanks for sharing all that intricate and highly interesting background stuff with us all this time.
Best regards all
s61
I Try To Be Good !!
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Nigerian taxes are paid by the employer and you get an annual clearance certificate upon request.
Licensing can take anything from a couple of weeks to six months. Depends on who does what in the NCAA................
Licensing can take anything from a couple of weeks to six months. Depends on who does what in the NCAA................
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Bristow Employment Offer
I just got a firm job offer from............... Bristow International Aviation (Guernsey) Ltd (BIA(G)L))..for $84,000.00 US dollars total for the year for an engineer job in ...WARRI..Nigeria.Dont know if I will accept...need information to make the decision. Is this Warri considered a good base as far as security and accomodation................what is your opinion on the wage offer...........is it considered....fair....good...........or below what the other guys are getting in this position. Would be very interested to get any kind of feedback.......hopefully from engineers at this particular location...........Canadian presently already in Africa.............