The Federal Government, through the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU), has urged the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority to reconsider a draft policy that would impose tougher penalties on airlines for an increasing number of flight delays and cancellations in Nigeria.
Hadiza Bala-Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and head of the CRDCU, made this recommendation during a performance assessment meeting at the Ministry in Abuja. The meeting focused on reviewing the Q1–Q3 2024 Performance Assessment Report regarding Presidential Priorities and Ministerial Deliverables.
Bala-Usman highlighted the necessity for stronger measures to protect passengers from the inconveniences and financial losses caused by frequent flight disruptions. She pointed out flaws in the Ministry’s engagement with stakeholders and customers, noting that incomplete data on service delivery hindered effective assessment.
In addition to advocating for stricter penalties, Bala-Usman criticized the current 224-day target for resolving customer complaints, labeling it as unrealistic and not in line with global standards. She stressed the urgency of recalibrating this target to ensure quicker and more effective dispute resolution for passengers.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, praised the CRDCU for its thoroughness and committed to addressing the identified challenges. He assured that his Ministry would enhance service delivery and maintain high standards in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
