The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Aviation Minister, NCAA, and airline stakeholders to address rampant flight delays and cancellations. The Senate seeks improved enforcement of aviation regulations, consumer protection, and solutions to enhance operational efficiency, ensuring reliable air travel vital for Nigeria's economic growth and foreign investments.
The Senate has summoned Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, NCAA Director General Captain Chris Najomo, and aviation stakeholders to address Nigeria’s growing issues of flight delays and cancellations.
During Wednesday’s plenary, Senator AbdulFatai Buhari (APC, Oyo North) moved the motion, prompting the Senate to task its Committee on Aviation with investigating the persistent operational inefficiencies. Highlighting the disruption caused by unreliable air travel, Buhari described aviation as critical to Nigeria’s socio-economic growth and urged a resolution to uphold the industry's reputation and efficiency.
The Senator criticized airline operators for unethical practices and noted the underutilization of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Act of 2023. This act empowers the NCAA to enforce consumer protection and regulate airlines to align with global standards. Buhari emphasized that many Nigerians are unaware of their rights to compensation for unwarranted delays, calling on the NCAA to activate these provisions and ensure airlines adhere to international best practices.
He warned that such systemic issues could undermine Nigeria's push for economic diversification and foreign investments. The lawmaker stressed the need for improved enforcement and transparency to restore confidence in the aviation sector and protect customers from poor service.
The Senate’s inquiry aims to foster a responsive aviation industry, strengthen compliance with consumer protection laws, and promote reliable air travel for businesses and individuals alike.
