By The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a strong warning to airlines, threatening sanctions for deporting Nigerian passengers or denying them boarding midway due to visa or travel restrictions.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs at the NCAA, said on Thursday that the agency had received multiple complaints about airlines selling tickets to Nigerians but deporting them after partial travel. He described the trend as unacceptable and damaging to Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“These actions, which involve the refusal of boarding or entry at intermediate or transit stops due to visa or travel restrictions, are causing significant distress to passengers and tarnishing the reputation of the aviation industry in Nigeria,” Achimugu stated.
The NCAA emphasized that airlines are responsible for informing passengers about any possible travel restrictions before allowing them to board. The authority warned that passengers should not be stranded or returned to Nigeria after reaching transit points.
Citing the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023, the NCAA stressed that airlines must screen passengers properly and provide them with accurate, up-to-date travel information. Any airline found violating these regulations will face penalties, including fines, suspension of operations, or other disciplinary actions.
Effective immediately, the NCAA has vowed to enforce strict measures against non-compliant airlines. The agency urged all airlines to uphold professionalism and ensure Nigerian passengers are treated fairly and with dignity.
