BASL Trains MMA2 Staff on Autism, Boosts Inclusive Travel
Bi-Courtney Aviation Services Limited (BASL), operator of the Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 2 (MMA2), has strengthened its commitment to passenger experience by training customer-facing staff on autism awareness, care and inclusive service delivery.
The training, facilitated by Cradle Lounge Special Needs Initiative, was led by Solape Azazi, a WHO CST Master Trainer. It was designed to equip frontline airport personnel with the knowledge, sensitivity and practical skills needed to effectively support passengers on the autism spectrum and their families.
According to Ajoke Yinka-Olawuyi, Head of Corporate Communications at BASL MMA2, the session focused on understanding autism fundamentals, identifying signs of sensory overload or distress, demonstrating effective communication strategies and promoting teamwork that prioritises compassion, dignity and understanding for every traveller.
Speaking on the initiative, the Acting Chief Operating Officer and Head of Space and Premises Management at BASL, Mr Kola Bamigboye, said the programme aligns with the organisation’s vision of making MMA2 a truly inclusive airport terminal where every passenger, regardless of ability, can travel with comfort, confidence and respect.
He noted that air travel can be overwhelming for individuals on the autism spectrum due to noise, crowds and multiple sensory triggers within the airport environment, adding that empowering customer-facing teams with the right training reinforces BASL’s commitment to ensuring a seamless and supportive passenger experience.
Also commenting, the Head of Human Resources and Administration, Feyikemi Fadeyibi, emphasised the role of workforce development in driving service excellence.
She stated that continuous training and capacity building are critical to ensuring that staff remain professionally competent, empathetic and responsive to the diverse needs of the travelling public.
In her remarks, Solape Azazi underscored the importance of the sensitisation programme, noting that autism does not have visible physical markers and that individuals may only be identified through behaviours indicating sensory overload or discomfort.
She stressed that the training objectives include understanding autism concepts, recognising signs of distress, applying effective communication and fostering teamwork rooted in compassion and respect.
The interactive session provided practical tools for empathy-driven engagement, de-escalation techniques and collaboration with families and caregivers, while reinforcing a culture of awareness and inclusion across the airport community.
The initiative forms part of BASL’s ongoing efforts to improve operational standards and passenger satisfaction at MMA2, positioning the terminal as a leader in inclusive and accessible service delivery within Nigeria’s aviation sector.
