The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has launched a renewed anti-violence campaign to tackle the rising cases of unruly behaviour among air travellers across the country’s airports and onboard aircraft. The move comes amid increasing reports of disruptive incidents that threaten safety, delay flights, and create tension for both passengers and aviation workers.
According to the NCAA, excessive alcohol consumption remains the leading cause of most unruly behaviours in Nigerian aviation. Other factors include flight delays, poor communication, and frustration over airport services. The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, explained that while regulations and facilities are already in place, they are often put to the real test during actual crisis situations.
Achimugu, who shared the update on his official X account, stressed that the unpredictable nature of human behaviour requires aviation authorities to not only react after problems occur but also develop proactive measures to prevent them. “Accurate data and the will to act on it will allow the back end to solve front-end problems without bringing the system to a halt,” he stated. “But this requires genuine commitment from all stakeholders, not just lip service.”
The NCAA said it is determined to build a more effective response to the challenge, and its latest campaign will focus on awareness creation among passengers. The authority also wants airlines and airport operators to take stronger actions against misbehaving passengers, including possible blacklisting of repeat offenders.
The new campaign outlines several strategies. These include improved data collection to track incidents, stronger crew training to manage difficult passengers, strict enforcement of aviation rules, and closer collaboration with other agencies. Key partners mentioned by the NCAA include the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) and Aviation Security (AVSEC), who will help enforce order across terminals.
The authority admitted that while public awareness campaigns already exist, many passengers are still not fully aware of their responsibilities when travelling. To bridge this gap, the NCAA is urging airlines to invest in stronger communication with travellers, especially during delays or disruptions.
Globally, aviation regulators are also facing similar challenges, with reports of unruly passengers rising sharply since the COVID-19 pandemic. Airlines worldwide have recorded incidents ranging from physical fights to refusal to follow crew instructions. Many countries have adopted stricter penalties, including fines, arrests, and lifetime bans for offenders.
In Nigeria, disruptive behaviour has not only delayed flights but also created security risks in airports. Some incidents have forced crew to call security personnel, while others have caused significant discomfort to fellow passengers. The NCAA believes tackling this menace early will help protect the aviation industry’s image and guarantee safer travel.
Michael Achimugu added that the system can only improve when every agency involved plays its part. He said the NCAA is committed to leading the way but will require “genuine collaboration” from all stakeholders, including airlines, security agencies, airport operators, and passengers themselves.
This campaign is also coming at a time when Nigerian airports are facing wider challenges. Recent reports have highlighted drug smuggling attempts, undeclared cash seizures, and cases of misconduct by airport officials. With these pressures, aviation experts say that addressing unruly behaviour among passengers will help restore public confidence and reduce unnecessary delays.
Industry observers note that the NCAA’s focus on both prevention and enforcement is timely. Stronger crew training, better data systems, and tougher rules for offenders could deter passengers from crossing the line. On the other hand, airlines and airport authorities will also need to improve customer service and reduce frustrations that often trigger conflicts.
The NCAA said it hopes the renewed campaign will lead to a more civil, respectful, and secure travel environment for all. For now, the message to passengers remains clear: air travel requires discipline, respect for rules, and cooperation with aviation staff. By ensuring that everyone understands their responsibilities, the NCAA believes Nigeria can build a safer and more efficient aviation system.
