NIGAV King, Queen of Air Visit MMA2, Advocate Zero Tolerance for Unruly Passenger Behaviour

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operators of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal Two (MMA2), recently welcomed the reigning NIGAV King and Queen of the Air in a symbolic visit aimed at promoting professionalism, civility, and mutual respect across Nigeria’s aviation ecosystem.

The NIGAV King, Henry Chika – a purser with ValuJet Airlines – and Queen, Aisha Yakub – a flight attendant with XEjet – emerged winners of the highly-regarded King and Queen of the Air Pageant, organised as part of the annual Nigerian Aviation (NIGAV) Awards and Minister’s Dinner.

According to Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications at BASL, the duo were warmly received at MMA2, a terminal noted for its commitment to operational excellence and superior passenger service.

Their visit highlighted the growing concern over unruly passenger conduct within Nigeria’s aviation space and the urgent need for sustained advocacy to promote peaceful and respectful travel experiences for all.

In his remarks, Acting Chief Operating Officer of BASL, Mr Remi Jibodu, congratulated the King and Queen on their achievements and applauded the values their positions represent.

“We are pleased to welcome the King and Queen of the Air to MMA2 and celebrate their achievements. Beyond their individual wins, the pageant serves as a unifying platform for the aviation industry. It reminds us of the shared values that bind us together: safety, professionalism, and respect,” Jibodu stated.

He also emphasised the significance of the airlines represented by the duo, noting that both ValuJet and XEjet are active participants in MMA2’s Premium Departure Concierge Service. “Their involvement reinforces the quality and standard we strive to maintain in collaboration with all our stakeholders,” he added.

Mr Fortune Idu, organiser of the NIGAV Awards and the visionary behind the King and Queen of the Air initiative, praised BASL for its hospitality and consistent support for industry-driven initiatives.

“This platform was created to empower cabin crew members and give them visibility on key issues. We are proud to see how it continues to inspire and unify the aviation community,” Idu noted.

During their courtesy visit, King Chika and Queen Yakub held meaningful discussions with BASL executives, focusing particularly on the rising trend of passenger unruliness.

In strong alignment with BASL’s Zero Tolerance for Violence policy, the discussions stressed the collective responsibility of all aviation stakeholders to safeguard the integrity and safety of the airport environment.

Reiterating the company’s stance, Mr Jibodu said, “BASL has consistently maintained a firm policy against any form of violence, vandalism, or disruptive conduct within its premises. Passengers are strongly urged to channel any grievances through appropriate and lawful means, as outlined by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations (Nig. CARs).”

He warned that individuals found violating these standards would face decisive legal consequences, including potential prosecution and blacklisting on “no-fly” lists.

Mr Kola Bamigboye, Head of Space and Premises and Acting Chief Operating Officer at BASL, also lent his voice to the message.

“While we understand the frustration that can arise from flight cancellations and delays, we urge passengers to address their concerns through the proper channels. Part 19 of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations provides clear guidance on passengers’ rights, and outlines the responsibilities of airlines, travel agents, and tour operators,” he explained.

The visit concluded on a high note, with the NIGAV King and Queen pledging to use their ambassadorship to champion the values of respect and professionalism in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Mr Fortune Idu added, “The NIGAV King and Queen of the Air, through their role as aviation ambassadors, will undoubtedly contribute to promoting this message of decorum and respect, reinforcing the collective commitment to a safer and more enjoyable air travel experience for all in Nigeria.”

The engagement not only reaffirmed MMA2’s role as a forward-thinking airport terminal but also spotlighted the critical role of collaboration and advocacy in upholding safety and service standards in the aviation industry.