……….Raises Concerns Over noncompliance with Accessibility and Inclusivity legal requirements.
Reports have reached the management of the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) that some airlines in Nigeria turn down persons with disabilities and generally challenged persons from flying in what they term small travel jets.
As internationally enshrined, the Commission urges carriers to imbibe the international best practices that serves all and does not discriminate as prescribed by the International Air Travellers Association (IATA) Regulations as well the Discrimination Against Persons with disabilities (Prohibition) Act 2018, Which expressly states under Section 14 (1) that, all airlines operating in Nigeria shall, a) ensure the accessibility of their aircrafts to persons with disabilities,
d. ensure that people with disabilities are accorded priority while boarding and disembarking from the aircraft.
The noncompliance with the above practice will result definitely attract resultant sanctions as enshrined in the law.
It expresses disappointment and deep concern over complaints that some persons with disabilities are denied boarding what airlines term small travel jets and views it as infringement on the rights of persons with disabilities.
The Commission believes that nothing must be allowed to call to question issues around accessibility and inclusivity that Nigeria preaches, especially with the passage of the Discrimination Against Persons with Disability (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
The Commission said it will view oversight as infringements on the rights of persons with disabilities.
It said further complaints, inconveniences, and distresses would make a joke of the Prohibition Act passed in 2018.
The NCPWD further sees such discrimination as a setback to the promotion of accessibility and inclusivity in the aviation industry.
As an organization advocating for the rights and empowerment of persons with disabilities, the Commission believes that accessibility should be a top priority in all aspects of life, including air and land transportation.
The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities urges relevant authorities to investigate this incident and ensure that measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future. We also call on stakeholders to join us in promoting a more inclusive and accessible environment for all Nigerians.
Signed
Ishaku Kigbu (anipr)
Head Media and Publicity NCPWD
27/1/2026
