Professionals in Nigeria's aviation industry are increasingly concerned about unruly passenger behavior and related safety issues at airports. During the 2025 Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria Safety Week in Lagos, experts highlighted a surge in incidents over the past decade, with a disruptive event occurring in one out of every 568 flights, often due to verbal abuse and intoxication. Yakubu Dati, a former commissioner, emphasized the need for effective conflict management strategies that incorporate negotiation and safety management systems. He noted that various conflicts in aviation, from labor disputes to communication breakdowns, threaten operational efficiency and safety if unmanaged. FAAN's Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, announced initiatives like training personnel in conflict de-escalation, improving passenger processes, and fostering a culture of professionalism to enhance safety. David Zacharias, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Safety Standards, stressed the importance of continual safety improvements and collaboration among stakeholders. Roland Iyayi, from the Airline Operators of Nigeria, called for the employment of qualified personnel to better manage crises at airports.
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