The rate of theft on Nigerian domestic flights has been rising, leaving many passengers frustrated and concerned about their safety. Aviation experts and airline operators have raised alarms over the increasing incidents of passengers stealing from others during flights.
The Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), Michael Achimugu, confirmed that a recent case involved a passenger who lost $100,000 while on a domestic flight.
Several airlines have reported incidents of theft in recent years. One of the most notable cases occurred in July 2024 when a passenger was caught allegedly stealing N1 million on an Air Peace flight from Abuja to Port Harcourt.
In another recent incident, a traveler on a Lagos-Owerri flight mistakenly picked up another passenger’s bag. Fortunately, the actual owner managed to recover it before leaving the airport due to the long distance between the tarmac and the arrival hall.
To address the problem, industry experts are calling for stricter security measures. Ambassador Ikechi Uko, a travel expert and organizer of the Akwaaba African Travel Market, suggested that only cabin crew members should open overhead lockers. This would allow them to monitor passengers more closely when retrieving their belongings.
Michael Achimugu, NCAA’s spokesperson, clarified that while airlines are responsible for checked-in luggage, passengers must take care of their hand luggage unless in special circumstances.
In response to the rising cases of theft, domestic airlines have implemented various preventive measures. Many now advise passengers to be vigilant and watch for any suspicious activity around their belongings. Some airlines have also instructed flight crews to be the only ones opening overhead compartments after landing to prevent unauthorized access.
Despite these efforts, aviation experts believe more needs to be done to restore confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector. They warn that continued in-flight theft could harm the country’s reputation and discourage both local and international travelers.
As authorities work to tackle the issue, passengers are urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity during flights.
