The Federal Government has introduced new measures to tackle the harassment of travelers at Nigeria’s international airports.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, announced the reforms under an initiative called “Operation Air Clean.”
Keyamo shared the news on Thursday via a post on X, saying the reforms aim to end corrupt practices, improve service delivery, and enhance passenger experiences at airports following increased complaints.
One key change at Murtala Muhammed International Airport is the removal of joint inspection tables. These will be replaced by intelligence-driven searches and advanced scanners to make security checks faster. There will also be fewer checkpoints, with officers from the Department of State Services and the Immigration Service sharing counters to reduce congestion.
To address touting and illegal activities, the government has approved the use of mobile courts to prosecute offenders quickly. A zero-tolerance policy will be enforced against unauthorized Bureau de Change operators and car-hire personnel.
Other improvements include better lighting, clearer signs, free Wi-Fi for passengers, and designated meet-and-greet areas at airports.
The Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku, called on the public and stakeholders to support the reforms.
“Collaboration is essential to create a safer and more efficient airport environment,” she said.
Keyamo emphasized that the reforms aim to restore confidence in Nigerian airports and ensure that travelers feel safe and respected.
