The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, alongside the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, over escalating concerns regarding poor flight operations across the country.
The legislative action, which also involves airline operators and other stakeholders, seeks to address the frequent delays and cancellations plaguing air travel in Nigeria. The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator AbdulFatai Buhari (APC, Oyo North) during Wednesday’s plenary session.
The Senate’s Committee on Aviation has been tasked with investigating the root causes of these disruptions and identifying sustainable solutions. Senator Buhari, while presenting the motion, lamented the growing prevalence of flight delays and cancellations, describing the issue as a significant concern.
“Air travel, being one of the most reliable and time-sensitive modes of transportation, is critical for business, official engagements, and other scheduled activities,” he emphasized. “Persistent delays and cancellations undermine Nigeria’s socio-economic development.”
Senator Buhari highlighted the statutory responsibilities of the NCAA under the Nigerian Civil Aviation Act, which mandates oversight to ensure airlines operate in line with international standards and provide value for their services. He pointed out that despite regulatory provisions, enforcement remains a challenge, with many passengers unaware of their rights to compensation for disruptions.
“Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023 outlines consumer protection measures, but these provisions are underutilized. Effective enforcement is necessary to compel airlines to adhere to their obligations,” the senator argued.
Buhari warned that the aviation sector’s inefficiencies could hinder Nigeria’s aspirations for economic diversification and foreign direct investment, key objectives of the current administration. He urged the NCAA to activate consumer protection measures to safeguard passengers and hold airline operators accountable.
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