The Nigerian Senate has summoned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, alongside the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, and key stakeholders in the aviation industry to address the increasing frequency of flight delays and cancellations in the country.
The decision followed a motion sponsored by Senator AbdulFatai Buhari (APC-Oyo North) during Wednesday’s plenary session. The Senate mandated its Committee on Aviation to investigate the root causes of the disruptions and recommend lasting solutions.
“This development is worrisome, as air travel is one of the most reliable and quickest means of transportation, often undertaken for business or official purposes,” Senator Buhari said. He noted that unwarranted delays and cancellations could harm Nigeria’s socio-economic growth.
A Call for Accountability
Buhari highlighted the need for the NCAA to enforce consumer protection regulations in line with international standards. “The NCAA is empowered to provide oversight and guidelines ensuring airline customers get value for their money,” he explained.
“Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority Regulations of 2023 makes provisions for consumer protection in the civil aviation industry. However, enforcement has been an issue, as most Nigerians are unaware they are entitled to compensation for time lost due to unnecessary delays,” the senator added.
He urged the NCAA to activate these provisions and hold airline operators accountable.
Impact on Economic Diversification Goals
The senator also expressed concern over the implications for Nigeria’s economic diversification and foreign direct investment efforts. “The quest for economic diversification and foreign investment, which are key to the current administration’s policy thrust, will remain an illusion if the aviation industry falls short of acceptable global standards,” Buhari cautioned.
Senate Actions
The Committee on Aviation is expected to engage with stakeholders, including airline operators, to devise strategies to curb the trend. Stakeholders are also anticipated to provide insights into the operational challenges facing the industry.
