The Management of Rano Air has expressed the commitment of the airlines to promptly dismantle discriminatory policies against persons with disabilities (PWDs).
The decision was an outcome of an ongoing investigation into the alleged discrimination by Rano Air against the Borno State chairman of the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JNAPWDs), Alhaji Usman Bura Gabai, at the Maiduguri International Airport, when the latter was allegedly denied boarding a Rano Air plane because he was using a wheelchair.
Consequently, the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) on March 15 said it was launching a thorough investigation into the matter with a view to diligently gather all necessary evidence and ensure a fair and transparent process, including taking appropriate action in accordance with the law.
However, in a statement signed by the Commission’s head of New Media, Faruq Gagarawa, on Friday, titled ‘Updates on Investigation into Rano Air Alleged Discrimination Incident’, NCPWD said following the formal investigation into the incident, 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:
“Rano Air promptly complied, repealing the discriminatory policy and committing to accommodating persons with disabilities.
“Comprehensive review of Rano Air’s ticketing and booking procedures. The airline has now introduced measures to provide special consideration for persons with disabilities
“Rano Air inaugurated a six-person committee to ensure effective implementation of these changes.
“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.
“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.
“The airline has begun constructing ramps at their offices in line with accessibility protocols, demonstrating their commitment to improving infrastructure for better accessibility,” NCPWD said, adding that it will continue to provide updates on progress of the investigation.
It noted that the Executive Secretary of NCPWD, Dr. James Lalu, 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 recognise the importance of this issue and to support efforts to eliminate discrimination against persons with disabilities,” it stated.
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