The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has warned that Kenya Airways (KQ) could face additional sanctions following ongoing complaints about the mistreatment of Nigerian passengers.
This comes shortly after an earlier sanction was issued over an incident involving a sick Nigerian passenger, Gloria Omisore. The airline allegedly failed to inform her of visa requirements for a France transit, leading to her being denied boarding and stranded in Nairobi without proper care.
Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA, confirmed that many unresolved complaints remain against KQ. He emphasized the authority’s intention to ensure compliance, not to punish airlines unnecessarily.
“There’s a truckload of complaints against the airline still going through processing. They may be facing even stiffer sanctions than this one, even if they do comply with the letters of this particular instruction,” he said.
Kenya Airways has been given seven days to respond to the authority’s exemption letter. A follow-up meeting will then be held to discuss improving services for Nigerian travelers.
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Consumer Protection Over Revenue
Achimugu clarified that international aviation regulations guide their decisions. “The aim of these sanctions is not to raise money for the CAA. It is to ensure compliance and improve the services of these airlines.”
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He noted that other airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, Ethiopian Airlines, and Air Peace, have complied without issue. Those who view such sanctions as diplomatic attacks, he said, are “not ready for business.”
Earlier Incident and Public Reaction
The recent sanctions stem from a January 2025 flight involving Gloria Omisore. Believing she had a confirmed connection to the UK via France, she boarded a flight in Lagos. However, due to lacking a French transit visa, she was denied boarding in Paris and rerouted through Nairobi, where she claims staff treated her poorly.
A viral video later showed her distressed while confronting airline personnel, prompting an outcry from Nigerians and a swift response from NCAA.
The African Union Single African Air Transport Market policy also encourages fair and respectful treatment of passengers across African borders, making this case even more significant on a continental level.
What’s Next for Kenya Airways?
If Kenya Airways fails to meet the current terms, the NCAA could impose stiffer sanctions that could affect the airline’s operations in Nigeria—a key market for the carrier.
This unfolding situation puts a spotlight on the importance of consumer protection, airline transparency, and adherence to international aviation laws.
