November 18, (THEWILL) – The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority on Monday took to the streets of Lagos in a mega road show to enlighten air passengers on their rights and responsibilities.
The initiative, spearheaded by the Consumer Protection Department of the NCAA, commenced at the agency’s headquarters and extended to key points within the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, including the General Aviation Terminal and MMA2.
Speaking during the event, NCAA’s Director of Public Relations and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, emphasised that the road show aimed to educate air travellers on their entitlements while promoting adherence to their obligations.
“This festive season heightens travel demand, and passengers must be aware of their responsibilities. Despite the rights passengers enjoy in the event of disruptions, they must also play their part by arriving early—two hours before domestic departures and three hours for international flights,” Achimugu noted.
Highlighting compensation regulations, Achimugu explained,“If your baggage is missing, the airline must compensate you immediately. For domestic flights, this amounts to N10,000, while international flights attract $170 under NCAA rules.”
He also reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance for unruly passenger behaviour and urged travellers to report grievances through professional channels.
He said, “Nigerians often claim ignorance of the NCAA’s role in protecting their rights. However, with Consumer Protection Officers stationed at 23 terminals nationwide, passengers can access immediate assistance. These officers are easily identifiable in their uniforms and are available to resolve issues.”
The road show attracted notable personalities, including Nollywood actress Chioma Omeruah, popularly known as Chigul, who commended the NCAA for addressing the information gap that often leaves passengers stranded.
She said, “One of the reasons we have problems is the lack of information. This initiative is teaching passengers their rights and responsibilities, fostering better behaviour among consumers, airlines, and even the NCAA itself.”
Echoing her sentiments, fellow actress Maureen Okeke admitted she was unaware of the NCAA’s efforts to protect air travellers.
“I didn’t know NCAA existed or that passengers have rights to demand better service. With this awareness, it won’t be business as usual. We, as Nollywood influencers, will use our platforms to educate travellers,” she said.
A cross-section of travellers lauded the NCAA for its proactive approach, sharing personal testimonies of how the CPD had resolved their complaints swiftly.
In addition to the road show, the NCAA recently launched the Centralised Passenger Information Portal, designed to enhance the existing Consumer Protection Portal.
This platform aims to address common issues such as flight delays and cancellations, providing an additional layer of support for air travellers.
Monday’s road show served as a prelude to the NCAA Consumer Protection National Stakeholders Summit, scheduled for Tuesday, November 18, 2024, at the NCAA Annex Hall, MMIA, Lagos.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
