Nigeria’s Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has called 13 domestic airlines to an urgent meeting in Abuja on September 10, 2025, to tackle rising flight delays, cancellations, and passenger complaints.
The announcement came from Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, via a statement on X on September 9, 2025.
Addressing Passenger Issues
The meeting, set for the NCAA headquarters, follows a surge in traveler complaints and incidents of unruly passenger behavior at airports.
Achimugu noted that some disruptions stem from passengers’ lack of awareness of aviation rules, while others result from airlines intentionally bypassing regulations, denying passengers their rights.
Key Topics on the Agenda
The NCAA plans to discuss critical issues, including:
- Persistent flight delays and cancellations
- Poor passenger handling and welfare
- Unresolved refund and compensation disputes
- Enforcing safety rules, like switching off phones during flights
- Protecting airline staff and NCAA officials from passenger aggression
- Introducing RFID baggage tagging and real-time flight monitoring technology
Enforcing Aviation Rules
On September 8, 2025, the NCAA reminded airlines of their duties under Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations.
These rules require airlines to provide hotel accommodations for stranded passengers between 10:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m. during delays or cancellations. Achimugu warned that airlines failing to comply face “naming and shaming” and strict sanctions, as the NCAA will no longer tolerate violations.
Challenges for Airlines and Staff
Achimugu highlighted that late-night flight cancellations often leave passengers stranded without support, forcing NCAA consumer protection officers to handle frustrated travelers, putting them at risk.
“The era of leniency is over,” he said, stressing that airlines must meet global standards to maintain credibility.
Looking Ahead
The NCAA acknowledges the operational challenges airlines face but insists on better service and compliance.
The outcome of the September 10 meeting could shape stricter enforcement and improve passenger experiences in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
