NCPWD Updates on Investigation into Rano Air Alleged Discrimination Incident

NCPWD Updates on Investigation into Rano Air Alleged Discrimination Incident

The National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) initiated a formal investigation into Rano Air following allegations of discrimination against Alhaji Usman Bura Gabai, the State Chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities. The incident, which occurred at Maiduguri International Airport, involved Mr. Gabai being denied boarding because he was using a wheelchair. Representatives from Rano Air were invited and the issues were extensively discussed by the NCPWD’s investigative panel.

In the course of the investigation, the Commission requested Rano Air to change its policy that denied persons with disabilities boarding the aircraft.

We are pleased to report and update the General public as follows:

a. Rano Air promptly complied, repealing the discriminatory policy and committing to accommodating persons with disabilities.

b. comprehensive review of Rano Air’s ticketing and booking procedures. The airline has now introduced measures to provide special consideration for persons with disabilities

c. Rano Air inaugurated a six-person committee to ensure effective implementation of these changes.

d. Rano Air is collaborating with the Disability Commission to train their staff on disability laws and regulations to enhance the quality of service better understanding of the needs of persons with disabilities among the airline’s employees.

e. Rano Air has also reviewed its contract with its Passenger Service Agent (PSA) to ensure that the boarding and deboarding processes comply with disability rights.

d. The airline has begun constructing ramps at their offices in line with accessibility protocols, demonstrating their commitment to improving infrastructure for better accessibility.

We will continue to provide updates on progress.

Dr. James David Lalu, PhD, NPOM, the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, reaffirmed the Commission’s unwavering commitment to enforcing disability rights laws and ensuring the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities are upheld.

The NCPWD encourages the general public to recognize the importance of this issue and to support efforts to eliminate discrimination against persons with disabilities.