The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has expressed concern over the increasing frequency of unruly behaviour by air travellers across the country’s airports, warning that such conduct will no longer be tolerated.
In a statement issued on Monday by its Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, the Authority reminded passengers to familiarise themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities and Airlines’ Obligations as outlined by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and FAAN Bye Laws.
The statement stressed that FAAN will enforce relevant sanctions provided under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Annex 17, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations—particularly Part 17—and the FAAN Bye Laws against any form of disruptive or threatening behaviour within airport premises.
Mrs. Orah disclosed that the agency is reviewing its protocols for restraining and prosecuting offenders in line with the Airport Approved Security Programme and applicable laws.
She cited the recent incident involving a passenger on an Ibom Air flight as an example. The passenger, who reportedly refused repeated instructions to switch off her phone before take-off, was initially managed by security personnel at the Murtala Muhammed Airport Domestic Terminal 2 (MM2) in Lagos.
FAAN’s Aviation Security (AVSEC) team later intervened, took her into custody, and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for investigation and prosecution.
FAAN urged all intending passengers to conduct themselves in a civil and orderly manner, adding that the safety, security, and comfort of airport users remain its top priority.
“Acts of inappropriate behaviour will be met with the full weight of applicable laws and protocols,” the statement read.
