Security agencies operating at Murtala Muhammed Airport (MMA), Lagos, have been warned to end the practice of soliciting bribes and tips from passengers.
This directive came from the Managing Director/Chief Executive of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, during a high-level meeting on Tuesday aimed at addressing persistent complaints of touting and passenger harassment.
Mrs. Kuku, supported by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo (SAN), emphasized that such unethical behaviors tarnish Nigeria’s image and deter investment. She announced the launch of “Operation AirClean,” a strategic initiative to sanitize the airport environment and enforce professionalism among officials.
Key measures outlined include:
- Eliminating manual search tables: Replacing them with advanced technology to minimize passenger inconvenience.
- Introducing mystery shoppers: Equipped with body cameras to monitor and evaluate staff performance.
- Imposing strict penalties: For agencies and leaders whose personnel engage in misconduct.
Mrs. Kuku also noted numerous complaints from the Presidency, the minister, and passengers, describing the reports as an embarrassment to the nation. “Lagos Airport is the first impression of Nigeria for many visitors, and the feedback has been alarming,” she stated, warning that it would no longer be “business as usual” for corrupt officials.
Heads of agencies present, including the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), committed to tightening oversight and ensuring accountability. Plans were also unveiled to provide secure visitor waiting areas and establish mobile courts to expedite offender prosecutions.
Mrs. Kuku concluded with a call for stronger collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies, stressing the urgency of restoring integrity and professionalism at the airport. “The airport is no place for personal profit,” she reiterated, urging all officials to align with FAAN’s vision of a corruption-free aviation sector.
