Lagos MMA2 Operator Launches Autism Awareness Training for Staff

Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), the private operator of Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2) in Lagos, Nigeria, has launched a new training initiative for its customer-facing staff focused on autism awareness and inclusive passenger services. The program, announced on February 20, 2026, aims to improve the travel experience for passengers on the autism spectrum and those with other neurodevelopmental conditions.

The initiative addresses the growing need for specialized support within airport environments, which can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. By equipping frontline personnel with practical skills, BASL seeks to create a more supportive and seamless journey for all travelers passing through the domestic terminal.

The training was facilitated by the Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative, a Nigerian-based organization focused on inclusive care. The sessions were led by Solape Azazi, a certified Master Trainer for the World Health Organization Caregiver Skills Training (WHO CST) program. The curriculum focused on several key areas: understanding the fundamentals of autism, identifying signs of sensory overload or distress in passengers, and implementing effective communication strategies to de-escalate stressful situations. The training also emphasized teamwork among airport staff to ensure a compassionate and dignified experience for every traveler.

Kola Bamigboye, acting Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Head of Space & Premises Management for BASL, stated that the program is central to the company's vision for MMA2. “Air travel can be particularly overwhelming for individuals on the autism spectrum due to noise, crowds, and multiple sensory triggers within the airport environment,” Bamigboye said. “By empowering our customer-facing teams with the right training, we are strengthening our commitment to ensuring that all passengers enjoy a seamless and supportive experience.”

Solape Azazi of the Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative highlighted the importance of recognizing the unique challenges faced by autistic travelers. “Autism, unlike other neurodevelopmental conditions, does not have a physical marker and so most individuals with autism are not easily identified except there is a recognized behaviour indicating sensory overload or discomfort experienced by a traveller,” Azazi explained. She noted that the training’s core objectives are to build understanding, compassion, and effective communication skills among airport staff.

A Broader Industry Focus on Inclusive Travel

The initiative at MMA2 reflects a wider trend within the global aviation industry to improve accessibility beyond physical disabilities. Airports and airlines are increasingly focusing on supporting passengers with 'invisible disabilities,' including autism, anxiety, and other neurodiverse conditions. This shift involves moving from simple compliance to a proactive approach to passenger well-being.

One common strategy being adopted globally is the use of discrete identifiers, such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard. This allows passengers to subtly signal to staff that they may need additional support, patience, or understanding without having to explain their condition repeatedly. While BASL has not yet announced participation in this specific program, its staff training aligns with the same goal of proactive assistance.

In terms of infrastructure, leading international airports have begun introducing dedicated sensory rooms or quiet zones. These spaces provide a calm environment away from the noise and crowds of the main terminal, allowing passengers who are feeling overwhelmed to decompress. London's Gatwick Airport was an early pioneer of this concept, offering a controlled space with features designed to soothe sensory inputs.

Major airlines are also investing heavily in staff education. For instance, Emirates announced in 2025 its goal to become the world's first 'Autism Certified Airline.' This ambitious initiative involves specialized training for over 30,000 cabin crew, ground staff, and other frontline employees to better serve neurodiverse passengers.

Future Steps for Accessibility at MMA2

While BASL has not disclosed a detailed roadmap for subsequent phases, the autism sensitization training provides a critical foundation for further accessibility enhancements at MMA2. The program could pave the way for the implementation of additional support systems, such as pre-flight familiarization tours for anxious travelers or the development of a designated quiet area within the terminal. The success of this initial training may also serve as a model for other airport operators across Nigeria and West Africa, encouraging a regional push towards more inclusive aviation services.

Why This Matters

This development positions MMA2 as a proactive terminal operator in the region, addressing the nuanced needs of the modern traveler. For the aviation industry, it underscores the growing importance of customer service that extends beyond efficiency to include empathy and specialized care. The initiative signals a maturation in the African aviation market, where passenger experience is increasingly seen as a key competitive differentiator.

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