The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to international airlines operating in the country, condemning the growing cases of Nigerian passengers being denied boarding or deported mid-journey due to visa and travel restrictions.
In a press release signed by Michael Achimugu, Director of Consumer Protection and Public Affairs, the NCAA revealed that it has received multiple complaints about airlines selling tickets to passengers without adequately informing them of potential entry restrictions at their destinations. As a result, many Nigerians have faced distressing situations where they are flown halfway to their intended locations, only to be denied entry at transit points and forcibly returned to Nigeria.
Describing these incidents as “completely unacceptable,” the NCAA emphasized that it is the responsibility of airlines to provide accurate and up-to-date information on visa requirements and travel restrictions before issuing tickets and boarding passengers. The aviation regulator cited the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 Part 19.21.1.1, which mandates airlines and their agents to ensure that travelers are fully aware of any potential barriers to their admissibility before departure.
Effective immediately, the NCAA has warned that any airline found engaging in these unethical practices will face strict regulatory penalties, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other enforcement measures. The authority has urged full cooperation from all international carriers to uphold the integrity of the Nigerian aviation sector and protect passenger rights.
The NCAA’s action underscores growing concerns about the treatment of Nigerian travelers on international routes and signals a renewed commitment to enforcing airline accountability in the industry.
