By Ebi Kesiena
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities, NCPWD, has expressed strong displeasure over reports that some airlines operating in Nigeria deny persons with disabilities access to flights, particularly on what are described as small travel jets, warning that such actions could attract court sanctions.
In a statement by Head, Media and Publicity, Ishaku Kigbu, the commission raised concerns over what it described as persistent noncompliance with existing accessibility and inclusivity requirements by some airline operators.
According to Kigbu, the commission has received complaints that persons with disabilities and other physically challenged individuals are routinely turned away from flights, a practice it views as a clear infringement on their fundamental rights.
The Commission reminded airlines that international best practices require carriers to serve all passengers without discrimination, in line with regulations of the International Air Transport Association, IATA and Nigeria’s Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
It cited Section 14(1) of the Act, which mandates all airlines operating in Nigeria to ensure the accessibility of their aircraft to persons with disabilities and to accord them priority during boarding and disembarkation.
Kigbu warned that failure to comply with these provisions would attract sanctions as prescribed by law, stressing that such discriminatory practices undermine Nigeria’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity.
The Commission said it views any form of oversight or denial of access as a direct violation of the rights of persons with disabilities and noted that continued complaints, inconvenience and distress would render the 2018 Prohibition Act ineffective.
Describing the situation as a setback to the promotion of inclusivity within the aviation sector, the NCPWD emphasized that accessibility must remain a priority across all sectors, including air and land transportation.
Meanwhile, the Commission called on relevant authorities to investigate the reported incidents and ensure concrete measures are put in place to prevent a recurrence, also urging stakeholders across the aviation industry to support efforts toward creating a more inclusive and accessible environment for all Nigerians.
