By RismadarVoice Media
December 23, 2025
Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned domestic airlines over persistent flight delays, failure to provide adequate passenger care, stressing that sanctions will follow continued violations of aviation consumer protection regulations.
The warning was issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, following an enforcement visit to the Abuja operations of Xejet, Rano Air, and United Nigeria Airlines on Monday.
According to Achimugu, the regulatory authority observed widespread non-compliance by airlines, particularly in their handling of passengers during flight delays.
He noted that many operators failed to provide timely, honest information, while others deliberately evaded the provision
of light refreshments to passengers after delays exceeded two hours, as required by law.
Describing the practice as unacceptable, Achimugu emphasised that airlines must strictly adhere to consumer protection provisions, especially during the peak December travel season, when flight disruptions are more frequent.
“While we understand the unique challenges of December per flight disruptions, airlines must provide the necessary care for passengers at a time like this,” he said.
The NCAA cited Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023, which mandates airlines to offer light refreshments after two hours of delay, alongside clear and honest communication with passengers.
Achimugu clarified that the warning extends beyond the three airlines inspected, stressing that the authority is closely monitoring all domestic operators.
“We have observed that most airlines do not provide timely, honest information, and that they try to evade the provision of light refreshments two hours into a delay, as stipulated by Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.
The NCAA finds this unacceptable, has given an ultimatum to the airlines. We are watching, and action will be taken where necessary,” he stated.
He explained that the enforcement inspections forms part of the NCAA’s broader efforts to protect passengers’ rights, ensure regulatory compliance,
maintain service standards across the aviation sector, particularly during periods of high passenger traffic.
