A civil society group, the Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD), has criticised the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for its recent directive requiring passengers to completely switch off their mobile phones during take-off and landing, rather than use airplane mode.
Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, NCAA Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo announced the new regulation, which effectively ends the allowance of mobile devices on “flight mode” during critical flight phases.
In a statement signed by Country Head Akingunola Omoniyi, NEFGAD called the directive “outdated” and “an international embarrassment,” arguing it reflects poorly on the state of Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“The aviation industry has moved beyond such practices. Modern aircraft are built to resist interference from personal devices and now offer in-flight Wi-Fi,” Omoniyi said, citing global airlines like Emirates, British Airways, and Delta that allow device usage throughout flights.
NEFGAD claimed the NCAA’s move reveals deeper issues within the sector, including reliance on outdated aircraft.
“This directive paints a picture of Nigeria’s airspace being dominated by aircraft older than 25 years,” the statement said, warning that such a perception could deter international investors and travelers.
The group further accused the NCAA of prioritising unnecessary rules over critical reforms, such as passenger rights, aircraft technology standards, and safety management.
“This is no time for regulatory showboating,” Omoniyi added. “Nigeria needs to align its aviation standards with international best practices.”
NEFGAD confirmed it has petitioned the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion to investigate the current technological capabilities of Nigerian airlines.
The group also criticised the high cost of air travel in Nigeria, saying passengers are forced to pay premium fares despite enduring subpar in-flight experiences.
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