The NCAA has received the concerns mentioned by NANTA and is working with the association to ensure equity, fairness, and compliance in the industry. While saluting the visionary ideas of the current NANTA President, the NCAA will ensure that every complaint is treated on its merit. Capt. Chris Najomo has ensured that this principle is enshrined as the very essence of the Authority.
BY ANTHONY OMOH
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has received treaties to regulate the downstream sector. If that happens it will enforce compliance among travel agencies. This move follows a request by the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA). The body wants the CAA to sanitize the sector by targeting illegal operators.
These were part of discussions when the travel agency body met the Regulators at its Abuja Headquarters March 20, 2025.
Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mr. Micheal Achimugu, led the NCAA delegation. He promised to strengthen NANTA through regulation. Achimugu acknowledged NANTA’s challenges over the years. He assured the association of the NCAA’s intervention to address these issues.
NANTA President, Mr. Yinka Folami, highlighted key challenges during the visit. He alleged airlines illegally operate ticket sales offices in cities. Folami also admitted some NANTA members operate at airport terminals against regulations. He urged the NCAA to investigate and enforce compliance if violations are found.
Folami bemoaned cross-border trading, stating it harms travel agents. Cross-border trading involves selling travel services internationally. It allows agencies to attract global clients but increases competition. Global Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) dominate this space with competitive pricing. Smaller agencies struggle to match their convenience and inventory.
Achimugu, alongside directors from Air Traffic Regulations and Legal Services, discussed solutions with NANTA. He promised the NCAA would address grievances and partner with NANTA. The goal is to grow the industry while ensuring compliance.
He said,” The NCAA has received the concerns mentioned by NANTA and is working with the association to ensure equity, fairness, and compliance in the industry. While saluting the visionary ideas of the current NANTA President, the NCAA will ensure that every complaint is treated on its merit. Capt. Chris Najomo has ensured that this principle is enshrined as the very essence of the Authority.”
The NCAA’s focus on regulating travel agencies aims to create a level playing field. By curbing illegal operations and cross-border trading, the authority hopes to protect legitimate businesses. This move is expected to boost confidence in Nigeria’s travel industry.
Transitioning to a regulated environment will require collaboration. NANTA and the NCAA must work together to address challenges. This partnership will ensure sustainable growth for travel agencies.
In conclusion, the NCAA’s intervention is a step toward sanitizing the sector. By enforcing compliance and curbing cross-border trading, the authority aims to protect travel agents. This will foster a healthier and more competitive industry.
