The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) Director , Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu has cautioned air travellers against accepting to carry, keep or assist other passengers with their luggage, warning that what may appear to be a simple act of kindness could expose them to criminal liability, including imprisonment.
Achimugu, gave the warning while explaining the importance of complying with aviation security regulations and the dangers of disregarding established safety procedures.
He specifically advised passengers against agreeing to watch over another traveller’s luggage while the person uses the restroom or helping to carry someone else’s hand luggage through airport security checkpoints.
He explained that passengers could unknowingly become involved in criminal activities by accepting responsibility for bags whose contents they have no knowledge of.
Using the case of Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab, popularly known as the Christmas Day bomber, as an example of the security threats facing the aviation industry, Achimugu warned that individuals with criminal intentions could appear harmless and use unsuspecting travellers to advance their plans.
According to him, what passengers consider an innocent gesture of assistance could have serious consequences if prohibited items are discovered in luggage they have agreed to handle.
He noted that passengers must understand that accepting another person’s luggage is not necessarily an innocent act, particularly in an industry where security procedures are designed to prevent criminal activities and protect lives.
Achimugu also explained that questions asked during airline check-in, including whether passengers packed their luggage themselves, are deliberate security measures intended to establish responsibility for the contents of checked-in bags.
He warned that unsuspecting travellers could also become victims of drug trafficking networks when relatives, friends or acquaintances persuade them to transport seemingly harmless packages to other destinations.
He urged passengers to exercise caution, insisting that familiarity or personal relationships should not replace proper security checks.
Beyond luggage-related concerns, the NCAA director explained that aviation security regulations evolve in response to emerging threats and technological advancements.
He cited the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States and the attempted shoe bombing incident involving Abdulmutallab in December 2009 as events that influenced changes in international aviation security procedures.
According to him, requirements such as removing certain footwear for screening and restrictions on carrying liquids exceeding 100 millilitres were introduced to address specific security threats.
He explained that although some airports have introduced advanced screening technologies that permit certain exemptions, such changes depend on the available infrastructure and security capabilities of individual airports.
Achimugu stressed that aviation safety and security regulations are not designed to inconvenience passengers but to prevent incidents that could endanger aircraft, passengers and crew.
He maintained that while airlines and aviation authorities should continue improving customer experience, passengers must recognise that safety requirements are not matters for personal preference or public debate.
He further clarified that Nigeria’s restrictions on the use of mobile phones during flights apply during take-off and landing, while passengers may use their devices at cruising altitude, subject to applicable instructions.
On restrictions concerning liquids, he advised passengers who wish to travel with perfumes exceeding the permitted quantity to purchase them from duty-free shops or pack them appropriately in checked-in luggage.
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