The Nigerian Senate has taken decisive action to address the persistent issues of delayed and cancelled flights that have been plaguing the country's aviation sector.
On Wednesday, December 4, the Senate summoned the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace, Festus Keyamo, along with the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Captain Chris Najomo, and various airline operators.
This move was prompted by a motion from Senator AbdulFatai Buhari, who expressed deep concern over the reliability of flight operations in Nigeria.
Senator Buhari emphasized the critical role of air travel in supporting economic activities and maintaining scheduled appointments, stating, "This development is worrisome as air travel is one of the most reliable, dependable, and quicker means of transportation."
He warned that "unwarranted flight delays and cancellations will be counterproductive to the socio-economic growth and development of this country."
The Senate's Committee on Aviation has been tasked with investigating the root causes of these operational inefficiencies and proposing sustainable solutions.
The aim is to ensure that the aviation industry adheres to international standards, which is vital for attracting foreign direct investment and supporting the government's economic diversification efforts.
Furthermore, Senator Buhari highlighted the need for the NCAA to enforce consumer protection regulations, as many Nigerians are unaware of their rights to compensation for unnecessary delays. He pointed out that "Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority Regulations of 2023 makes provisions for consumer protection," yet enforcement remains a challenge.
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