NCAA WARNS AIRLINES: STOP DEPORTING NIGERIANS MIDWAY OR FACE SANCTIONS

April 3, 2025

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Lagos, Nigeria – The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a stern warning to international airlines over the growing cases of Nigerian passengers being denied boarding or deported at transit stops due to visa and travel restrictions.

The NCAA revealed that airlines have been selling tickets to passengers without adequately informing them of potential entry restrictions at their destinations. Some travelers have been flown halfway before being denied entry and forcibly returned to Nigeria, causing distress and damaging the country’s aviation reputation.

According to the NCAA, airlines are responsible for verifying passengers’ travel documents before departure. Under the Nigeria Civil Aviation Regulations 2023 (Part 19.21.1.1), airlines must ensure passengers are fully informed of any admissibility issues before issuing tickets.

With immediate effect, the NCAA has warned that any airline engaging in these practices will face severe regulatory actions, including fines, suspension of flight operations, or other penalties.

The authority has called for strict compliance from all international carriers operating in Nigeria to uphold professionalism and protect Nigerian travelers from undue hardship.