A French national was removed from an Air France flight at Abuja Airport on New Year’s Day after causing disturbances that raised security and diplomatic concerns.
The passenger’s behaviour disrupted multiple flights, prompting airport security to intervene and prevent him from entering the boarding area.
The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) confirmed the incident, stating that the man’s actions posed a safety risk, which led to his removal from the flight.
The passenger had arrived in Abuja without a valid Nigerian visa and was denied entry into the country. Air France arranged for him to stay in a hotel within the airport after a visit from French Embassy staff and a doctor. However, his disruptive behaviour persisted.
“Air France accommodated him in a hotel within the airport terminal after a visit from staff of the French Embassy and a medical doctor. However, his erratic behaviour continued.
“After Air France refused to airlift him back to his country, British Airways also declined to accept him on board due to his disruptive conduct and his failure to provide proof of payment for his ticket,” Achimugu said.
Despite his lack of a Nigerian visa, he was not permitted to enter Abuja and was instead visited by French Embassy staff again. He later tried to board a flight with Asky Airlines, but failed to show evidence of payment for his e-ticket, leading the airline to refuse him boarding.
Immigration officers faced difficulties managing the passenger, who was seen causing a scene in the terminal, shouting and throwing tissue paper around. Authorities were concerned that handing him his passport might allow him to flee the airport.
As of the latest update, it is unclear whether the passenger has been sent back to France, as NCAA representatives have not yet provided further details.
