Frustrated Nigerian travelers grappling with widespread flight delays and cancellations may soon see relief as Chris Najomo, Director-General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), schedules an urgent meeting with airline CEOs. The meeting, set for Friday, aims to address escalating disruptions and restore order during the holiday travel rush.
“This demonstrates the NCAA’s commitment to passengers,” said Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s Director of Public Affairs, on his X account. “Najomo is cutting short a critical assignment to meet with airline executives, showing we care about resolving these issues.”
Recent capacity boosts have failed to curb disruptions caused by poor weather and limited aircraft sizes, leaving passengers stranded and irate. Achimugu shared his own harrowing experience with aggrieved passengers threatening violence at an airport.
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“I spent 20 minutes explaining that weather-related delays are beyond the airline’s control,” Achimugu said, adding that he intervened to secure transportation for passengers and paid for accommodation for elderly travelers from his personal funds.
Passengers were offered partial compensation and encouraged to use the NCAA’s QR code complaint system to expedite unresolved issues. Achimugu also disclosed that disciplinary action is underway against five airlines for consumer rights violations, marking a rare enforcement in over a decade.
The NCAA has sought updated daily weather reports directly from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) to improve transparency. Additionally, aviation minister Festus Keyamo is spearheading efforts to equip regional airports with advanced landing systems to mitigate disruptions.
“Progress takes time, but we’re seeing strides in addressing systemic challenges,” Achimugu said, urging patience as the aviation industry recovers.
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