Keyamo Unveils Bold New Measures to Tackle Airport Harassment and Revolutionize Passenger Experience
In response to numerous complaints about the harassment of travelers by various government agencies at Nigeria’s international airports, I have approved a series of significant measures aimed at improving the situation. These actions are intended to ensure a smoother, more transparent travel experience for all passengers.
Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Introduces New Initiatives to Tackle Corruption and Improve Service at MMIA and GAT
The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) remains dedicated to providing world-class service, ensuring passenger safety, and meeting the highest standards of security across its managed airports.
After a high-level emergency meeting chaired by the FAAN Managing Director, with input from agency heads and FAAN directors, the “Operation Air Clean” initiative has been launched to address critical issues at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal (GAT).
Key Measures to Address Corruption and Enhance Passenger Experience at MMIA and GAT:
1. Elimination of Joint Inspection Tables at MMIA:
Immediate dismantling of joint inspection tables by security agencies.
Intelligence-driven search procedures, utilizing advanced scanners and individual profiling.
Establishment of a designated area for camera surveillance of passengers.
2. Streamlined Passenger Processing:
DSS and Immigration officers will now work together at common counters to reduce waiting times for outbound passengers.
Customs officers will be stationed at AVSEC screening points to handle money declaration processes.
3. Transparency and Accountability in Screening:
Secondary screenings will be conducted in designated profiling rooms at Terminals 1 and 2.
Real-time screens will display the names and contact details of officers on duty to ensure full transparency.
4. Redefining Roles of Agencies:
NDLEA personnel will collaborate with AVSEC staff for screenings and conduct roving checks in the arrival halls.
DSS officers will be tasked with roving through departure and screening areas to monitor activities.
5. Activation of Mobile Court for Offenders:
A mobile court will be set up to promptly address and prosecute violators, particularly touts, to ensure swift justice.
6. Creation of Meet-and-Greet Areas:
FAAN will designate secure, comfortable spaces for visitors awaiting arriving passengers.
7. Zero Tolerance for Unprofessional Conduct:
Immediate prosecution of BDC and car-hire staff found loitering or engaging in unauthorized activities.
Any business violating rules will face termination of operations and withdrawal of their right to operate at terminals.
8. Improved Infrastructure and Signage:
Enhanced lighting in both landside and concourse areas.
Prominent signage will enforce a strict three-minute pickup rule and highlight available free WiFi services for passengers.
Key Reforms for General Aviation Terminal (GAT):
1. Timed Parking System:
Introduction of a paid parking system for both short and long-term parking.
2. Regulation of Car Hire Services:
Limiting the number of car hire vehicles allowed in designated parking areas.
3. Elimination of Touting:
Strong enforcement of measures to combat touting and harassment by car hire drivers.
Ministerial Endorsement and Vision for the Aviation Sector
These reforms align with the vision of the Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development to bring Nigeria’s airports in line with global standards of efficiency, security, and customer satisfaction.
Minister’s Statement:
“The Nigerian Government is fully committed to ensuring our airports meet the highest standards of safety, service, and transparency. These changes are a critical step toward transforming the travel experience and addressing long-standing issues. I commend FAAN for its leadership in executing these measures and reaffirm the Government’s commitment to supporting the growth of the aviation sector.”
Call to Action for Stakeholders and the Public:
FAAN urges all stakeholders, passengers, and the public to support the “Operation AirClean” initiative as we work together to build a safer, more efficient, and passenger-friendly airport environment.
Signed,
Festus Keyamo,
Honourable Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development
