The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has directed that all passengers on domestic flights must switch off their mobile phones and other portable electronic devices completely during takeoff and landing.
The directive was issued on Tuesday by the NCAA Director-General, Capt. Chris Najomo, during an Emergency National Civil Aviation Security Committee and Stakeholders Meeting held in Abuja.
Najomo emphasized that airlines are required to amend their operations manuals to reflect this new rule and submit them to the NCAA for immediate approval.
According to him, aviation security personnel and law enforcement agencies must operate with reinforced training, professionalism, and clearly defined rules of engagement. He stressed the need for all stakeholders — including airlines, intelligence partners, and security operatives — to work collaboratively, share threat intelligence, and coordinate rapid response measures.
“The travelling public must begin to see airlines as partners rather than adversaries,” Najomo stated. “To remove any ambiguity, all mobile phones and portable electronic devices must be completely switched off during critical phases of flight on Nigerian airlines. There is no longer any allowance for ‘flight mode.’ Devices must be turned off.”
He added that this directive may be subject to review in the future as aircraft technology and safety risk assessments continue to improve.
Najomo further clarified that flight crews hold the responsibility of informing passengers of the requirement, while passengers are expected to strictly comply with crew instructions.
