(DDM) – The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to domestic airlines over persistent flight delays and failure to provide adequate passenger care across Nigeria.
The warning was issued through the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, which said continued violations would attract firm regulatory sanctions.
The agency made this known in a statement posted on X on Tuesday by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu.
According to the NCAA, the complaints being received from air passengers have reached unacceptable levels.
The authority said many airlines repeatedly delay or cancel flights without giving timely information to passengers.
It noted that affected passengers are often left stranded at airports without proper assistance or explanations.
The NCAA said such practices violate the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations on consumer protection.
The agency warned that airlines must respect passengers’ rights as enshrined in existing aviation laws.
Achimugu said airlines are legally required to provide care, comfort, and timely updates to passengers during delays.
He explained that passenger care includes refreshments, accommodation where necessary, and clear communication.
The NCAA stressed that excuses such as operational challenges cannot justify neglect of passengers.
It warned that airlines that continue to disregard regulations would face penalties ranging from fines to suspension of operating licences.
The authority said enforcement actions would be applied without fear or favour.
According to the statement, the NCAA has intensified monitoring of airline operations across Nigerian airports.
It disclosed that inspectors are being deployed to ensure compliance with passenger protection rules.
The agency said airlines have been repeatedly engaged and reminded of their obligations.
Despite these engagements, the NCAA noted that violations persist.
It described the situation as damaging to public confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
The authority emphasized that air travel should be safe, reliable, and passenger-friendly.
Background information shows that flight delays have become a recurring issue in Nigeria’s domestic aviation industry.
Passengers have frequently complained about hours-long delays without official communication.
Social media platforms are often flooded with videos and testimonies from frustrated travellers.
Consumer rights groups have accused some airlines of prioritising profit over customer welfare.
In recent years, the NCAA has received thousands of passenger complaints annually.
Many of these complaints relate to delays, cancellations, lost baggage, and poor customer service.
The aviation sector in Nigeria has also faced challenges such as high operating costs and infrastructure constraints.
Rising fuel prices and foreign exchange shortages have increased pressure on domestic airlines.
However, the NCAA insists that economic challenges do not excuse violation of passenger rights.
The authority said airlines must plan operations realistically to minimise disruptions.
It urged airline operators to reduce overbooking and unrealistic scheduling.
The NCAA also called on passengers to report violations through official complaint channels.
It assured travellers that reported cases would be investigated thoroughly.
Achimugu said protecting consumers remains a core mandate of the authority.
He added that the agency is committed to strengthening accountability within the aviation industry.
Industry analysts say stronger enforcement could improve service quality over time.
They note that predictable schedules and better communication are critical to restoring trust.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated its commitment to reforming the aviation sector.
Authorities say improved regulation is key to making Nigeria a regional aviation hub.
The NCAA reiterated that airlines must see passengers as partners, not inconveniences.
It warned that tolerance for non-compliance has reached its limit.
As the warning circulates, passengers are hopeful that tangible action will follow.
The coming weeks are expected to test the government’s resolve to enforce aviation regulations.
For now, the NCAA says airlines must either comply with the rules or face the consequences.
