The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has urged all air travellers to strictly comply with established airport and airline regulations, emphasising that the safety, security, and comfort of all airport users remain its top priority. The authority also encouraged passengers to familiarise themselves with the Passengers’ Rights and Responsibilities* and Airlines’ Obligations published by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as well as FAAN’s Bye Laws.
The advisory comes in the wake of a viral video showing an altercation involving a female passenger, identified as Comfort Emmanson (also known as Comfort Bob), an Ibom Air flight attendant, and airport security personnel. According to Ibom Air, the incident occurred on Sunday, August 10, during a Uyo–Lagos flight. The airline alleged that Ms Emmanson’s behaviour posed a serious threat to the safety of the crew, passengers, and aircraft after she refused to switch off her mobile phone in compliance with standard aviation safety procedures. The matter escalated when another passenger seated beside her took the phone and turned it off, sparking a physical confrontation.
Following the incident, FAAN condemned Ms Emmanson’s actions and confirmed that its Aviation Security (AVSEC) team intervened and handed her over to the Nigerian Police Force for further investigation and prosecution. Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, also denounced her conduct, confirming that she was arraigned at the Ikeja Magistrates’ Court on Monday for criminal offences and remanded to Kirikiri Prison after failing to provide adequate sureties. Comfort Emmanson has yet to make a public statement on the matter.
Speaking on the broader issue of passenger behaviour, NCAA Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu, outlined key regulations and offences under Nigerian aviation law. These include smoking in aircraft or designated non-smoking areas; unauthorised use of mobile phones or electronic devices on board; fighting or disorderly conduct; disobedience of lawful crew or security instructions; acts endangering flight safety; tampering with aircraft equipment; unauthorised entry into restricted areas; and carrying prohibited or dangerous items without approval. Taking photographs or videos in restricted terminal areas is also prohibited. Violations can result in civil penalties, criminal charges, or both, depending on the severity of the offence.
The NCAA further detailed penalties for in-flight and terminal offences. These range from maximum civil fines for operating electronic devices against crew instructions, smoking in prohibited areas, or consuming unapproved alcohol, to criminal referrals for physical assaults, threats, tampering with safety equipment, or actions posing imminent danger to aircraft or individuals. The regulations also empower aircraft commanders and airport authorities to restrain and prosecute unruly passengers when necessary. FAAN warned that such misconduct will not be tolerated and is reviewing its enforcement protocols to ensure swift action against offenders.
