The Network for the Actualisation of Social Growth and Viable Development (NEFGAD) has condemned the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) for instructing passengers to completely power off mobile phones during flights, calling the directive outdated and embarrassing for Nigeria.
The NCAA, led by Director-General Capt. Chris Najomo, recently announced at a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja that all electronic devices must now be switched off entirely during flights, effectively ending the use of “flight mode.”
In a statement signed by Country Head Mr. Akingunola Omoniyi, NEFGAD argued that the move risks portraying Nigeria as technologically backwards. The organisation accused the NCAA of attempting to cover up regulatory inefficiencies that continue to embarrass the nation.
“Global aviation has moved past banning mobile devices. Many international airlines now offer free inflight Wi-Fi throughout flights,” NEFGAD stated, urging the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) to verify whether Nigerian aircraft meet modern safety and connectivity standards.
The group warned that the NCAA’s directive suggests Nigeria’s airspace is dominated by obsolete planes built before 2000, a perception that could deter investors and travelers alike. NEFGAD contrasted this with airlines like Emirates, Lufthansa, British Airways, and Delta, which provide internet services at all flight phases, highlighting Nigeria’s lag.
NEFGAD further criticised the NCAA for neglecting more urgent issues, including aircraft standards, passenger protection, and aviation security. The organisation called on the regulator to embrace innovation, benchmark airlines against international standards, and implement reforms that reflect modern technology while enhancing passenger experience.
“This is not the era for regulatory grandstanding but for global competitiveness and innovation. Nigerian aviation must move with the times,” NEFGAD concluded.
This ban makes Nigeria look backward—most countries now allow airplane mode and even offer Wi-Fi. Instead of targeting passengers, NCAA should focus on upgrading aircraft and safety standards.