The Federal Aviation Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has established an armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) Unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos as part of its ongoing efforts to combat touting and other illegal activities in and around airports in the country.
Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, made this announcement in a statement released on his official page on Monday.
“In line with our commitment to eradicate touting and other unlawful activities in the vicinity of our airports, the Managing Director of FAAN, representing me, inaugurated the armed Aviation Security (AVSEC) unit at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), Lagos,” Mr. Keyamo stated.
The minister clarified that this initiative will be implemented at other international airports in the country, empowering security personnel to apprehend and prosecute touts and suspected criminals in airport surroundings.
Furthermore, Mr. Keyamo highlighted that this initiative is distinct from the ongoing inter-ministerial efforts aimed at addressing government agencies within airports that engage in practices such as extortion, bribery, and solicitation.
The introduction of AVSEC took place following Mr. Keyamo’s recent announcement that his ministry, along with other relevant agencies, would soon unveil practical measures to tackle the issues of “begging and extortion” at Nigerian airports.
A common occurrence at major airports in Nigeria is the solicitation of kickbacks by government officials (Customs, Immigration, NDLEA, etc.) from departing or arriving passengers.
Moreover, unauthorized traders often occupy the premises of major airports in the country, selling various items ranging from ‘Kilishi’ (dried beef) to padlocks and related goods.
Additionally, an investigation conducted by Correspondents in 2018 revealed how inadequate airport facilities contribute to touting, hawking, and other illicit activities at major airports in Nigeria, raising safety concerns.
