The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to international airlines following a spike in complaints from Nigerian travelers who were transported partway to their destinations only to be turned around and returned to Nigeria. The NCAA condemned the growing trend, describing it as unacceptable, distressing, and damaging to the reputation of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
In a statement released Thursday, Michael Achimugu, the NCAA’s Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, criticized the practice of denial of entry or boarding at transit points, often due to undisclosed visa or travel restrictions.
“The actions involving denial of boarding or entry at intermediary or transit points due to visa and travel restrictions are entirely unacceptable,” Achimugu said. He stressed that airlines are responsible for ensuring passengers are adequately informed of entry requirements before travel begins.
The NCAA emphasized that passengers should not discover travel limitations mid-journey or upon arrival at transit locations, adding that this lack of due diligence by airlines has caused significant emotional, financial, and logistical distress for affected travelers.
The aviation authority called on all international carriers to improve passenger screening processes, enhance pre-departure information protocols, and align operations with global best practices to avoid further penalties or sanctions.
Citing the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (Part 19.21.1.1), the NCAA reaffirmed that airlines and their representatives are required to notify travelers of any entry restrictions before their departure. “Airlines must implement suitable measures to screen and provide travelers with precise, current information regarding their travel documents and visa prerequisites before ticket issuance and boarding,” he noted.
In response to these concerns, the NCAA has announced immediate enforcement actions. “Effective right away, any airline found to be engaging in these practices will face regulatory repercussions, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other penalties deemed appropriate,” warned Achimugu.
He further expressed the NCAA’s expectation for airlines to cooperate in upholding the integrity and professionalism of the aviation industry while also ensuring the welfare of Nigerian passengers.