The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has announced plans to introduce Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) baggage tracking technology across Nigerian airports in a move aimed at reducing incidents of missing, delayed, and mishandled luggage.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement forum, the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at the NCAA, Michael Achimugu, revealed that the proposed system would replace the existing barcode-based baggage handling process and enable passengers to track their luggage in real time using their mobile phones.
According to Achimugu, baggage-related complaints remain one of the most common issues faced by air travelers in Nigeria, second only to flight delays and cancellations. He explained that the RFID technology would allow passengers to monitor their luggage throughout the entire journey—from check-in to baggage reclaim.
Under the new system, travelers will be able to see whether their luggage has left the check-in area, arrived at the boarding section, and been loaded onto the correct aircraft. The technology is also expected to significantly reduce cases of baggage being loaded onto the wrong flight.
"If for any unforeseen circumstance a passenger arrives at their destination without their luggage, they can instantly determine the location of the bag through the tracking system," Achimugu said.
The NCAA believes the initiative will dramatically reduce the time required to resolve baggage complaints. While current regulations allow airlines up to seven days to locate and reconcile missing baggage, the automated tracking system is expected to provide immediate visibility into the whereabouts of passengers' luggage.
Achimugu disclosed that discussions are already underway with airlines to integrate the RFID technology into their operational systems. He added that the NCAA is reviewing existing regulations to make automated baggage tracking mandatory for all airlines operating within Nigeria.
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), which owns and manages airport infrastructure, is expected to work alongside the selected contractor and ground handling companies to implement the project.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a major step toward improving passenger experience, operational efficiency, and service delivery within Nigeria's aviation sector.
Once deployed, the RFID baggage tracking system is expected to align Nigerian airports with global best practices and provide travelers with greater confidence and transparency throughout their journeys.
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