New Measures to Tackle Corruption and Improve Airport Experience in Nigeria
In response to growing concerns over corruption and inefficiency at Nigerian airports, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has introduced a series of comprehensive measures aimed at enhancing transparency, improving passenger experience, and eliminating corrupt practices. These initiatives are part of Operation Air Clean, a strategic framework developed following an emergency meeting involving key stakeholders.
The document outlining these changes, titled “Position Document on Measures to Address Corrupt Practices and Enhance Passenger Experience at MMIA and GAT,” was signed by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo. It highlights a range of actions designed to streamline operations at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) in Lagos.
Key Initiatives Under Operation Air Clean
One of the primary objectives of the initiative is to eliminate joint inspection tables operated by security agencies. Instead, intelligence-driven passenger screening, individual profiling, and camera-based monitoring will be implemented to ensure more efficient and secure processes.
The Department of State Services (DSS) and Immigration Service will now share counters to ease passenger flow, while Customs officers will relocate to Aviation Security (AVSEC) screening points for money declaration purposes. This move is expected to reduce congestion and improve the overall travel experience.
FAAN also plans to introduce greater transparency in passenger search procedures. Secondary screenings for arriving passengers will now take place in designated profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2. Real-time information screens will display the names, agencies, and contact details of officers on duty, ensuring accountability and transparency.
Redefining Agency Roles
NDLEA personnel will partner with AVSEC at screening points and conduct roving checks, while DSS personnel will maintain surveillance around departure and screening areas. The document states that DSS and Immigration Service personnel will share counters to reduce checkpoints for outbound passengers, thereby enhancing travel flow.
Customs officers will relocate to the AVSEC screening point for money declaration. Upon arrival, secondary screenings will be conducted in profiling rooms located at Terminals 1 and 2. These rooms will feature real-time screens displaying officer details, reinforcing transparency.
Strengthening Enforcement
To strengthen enforcement, FAAN announced the immediate activation of a mobile court to handle cases of touting and related offenses. A designated meet-and-greet area will provide secure waiting spaces for visitors receiving passengers, reducing congestion around terminals.
The mobile court will expedite the prosecution of offenders, particularly touts. Any Bureau De Change (BDC) or car-hire staff found loitering or engaging in unauthorized activities will face immediate prosecution. Businesses found defaulting on regulations risk shutdowns and withdrawal of rights to operate in terminals.
Focus on General Aviation Terminal
At the General Aviation Terminal, FAAN will implement a timed parking system for short- and long-term users. The number of car-hire vehicles in the parking lot will be limited, and efforts to eradicate touting and passenger harassment will be intensified.
Government Commitment to Reform
Minister Festus Keyamo endorsed the new policy, reaffirming the government’s commitment to reform airport management nationwide. Multiple sources in the ministry also hinted that FAAN management will send an additional letter to the office of the National Security Adviser, appealing for urgent implementation of the new policies.
With Operation Air Clean, FAAN aims to create a safer, more efficient, and transparent airport environment for both passengers and airport stakeholders. This initiative signals a decisive move toward professionalizing Nigeria’s aviation sector.