The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has issued a fresh directive mandating all air passengers to completely switch off their mobile phones and electronic devices during aircraft takeoff and landing.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Tuesday, NCAA Director General, Chris Najomo, stressed that the decision was made to eliminate confusion among travelers caused by varying rules issued by different airlines.
The directive comes on the heels of a recent controversy involving a passenger, Comfort Emmanson, and an Ibom Air flight attendant, which sparked heated debates across the country.
“As a takeaway and to avoid ambiguity and confusion, all mobile phones and other portable electronic devices should be switched off during the critical stage of flight on all Nigerian airlines. Switch off—nothing like flight mode any longer,” Najomo stated.
He further ordered Nigerian air operators to update their operating manuals to reflect the new safety requirement and submit them for NCAA’s approval.
Najomo explained that while the crew is responsible for informing passengers of the rule, travelers must also comply strictly for the safety of all on board. He added that the directive may be reviewed in the future as aircraft technology evolves.
