The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has confirmed that international travelers are entitled to an initial payment of $170 if their luggage is lost, with a 21-day window for the airline to recover it.
After this period, passengers can claim further compensation for damages if the luggage remains missing.
For domestic travelers, the NCAA mandates airlines to pay an initial sum of N10,000 for lost baggage, allowing the airline seven days to locate the luggage before facing additional compensation requirements.
The policy aims to safeguard passengers' rights and ensure accountability within Nigerian aviation.
Speaking during a road show on Monday put together by the NCAA Consumer Protection Department to sensitize passengers on their rights, Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Relations and Consumer Protection, said, “If your baggage is missing, the airline must compensate you immediately. For domestic flights, it is N10 thousand while international flights attract $170 under NCAA regulations.”
Achimugu said the agency has zero tolerance for unruly passengers, urging travelers to exercise patience and report grievances professionally.
“Nigerians often claim ignorance of the NCAA’s role in protecting their rights, but we are here for them,” he stated. “With our Consumer Protection Officers stationed at 23 terminals nationwide, passengers can be rest assured of immediate assistance.”
He encouraged passengers to identify these officers who wear uniforms for easy recognition and approach them for support.