The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria reported that a middle-aged man was electrocuted while trying to steal electrical cables inside the powerhouse at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
FAAN Managing Director Mrs. Olubunmi Kuku confirmed the incident. She emphasized that the agency is committed to preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas. “Our environment is quite unique in the sense that even though we do have some security issues nationwide, we have been quite lucky within the airport environment as we haven’t had any of those major incidents,” she said. “We do have, you know, individual issues.”
She further explained that some individuals have attempted to cross the airport’s perimeter fences to steal airfield lighting equipment or harm staff. “We had an incident where an individual actually went into our powerhouse and he got electrocuted,” Kuku added.
The incident was discussed during the commissioning of 30 Special Forces assigned to secure the airport. Kuku highlighted that FAAN has been planning to introduce these forces for the past six months, focusing on funding, armament, and personnel training.
Addressing the Special Forces, Kuku said, “What I want to say is that you have been specially selected to be part of this unit. This is a special unit. Hopefully, there won’t be any need to use your arms, but rather to leverage this as a deterrent. What is critical is that we want you to work very closely with the other security agencies at the airport. This is an environment that we want to keep safe and secure.”
Kuku also mentioned the ongoing issues of illicit activities at the airport that require attention.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has expressed concern over the presence of touts and extortionists at Nigeria’s international airports.
He noted that he has received many complaints from Nigerians about these issues, which tarnish the country’s image. The Minister promised to unveil practical steps to address the situation.
