Keyamo Implements ‘Operation Air Clean’ to Tackle Corruption, Improve Airport Security

In a move at incepting new reforms, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has directed the dismantling of joint inspection tables managed by multiple security agencies, which they use for physical inspection of passengers’ luggage.

The minister ordered, henceforth, inspections will focus on intelligence-based screening, use of advanced scanning technology equipment, and non-physical passenger profiling to enhance efficiency and accuracy, insisting that these new reforms must be implemented immediately at the international terminal and General Aviation Terminal (GAT) of the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos.

In addition to that; the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has designated new observation zones equipped with surveillance cameras, which will ensure real-time monitoring and comprehensive screening expected to improve transparency and accountability.

The minister who initiated the new security system at the airports dubbed ‘Operation Air Clean’, said it is aimed at eliminating corruption, enhancing transparency, and improving passenger satisfaction at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) and the General Aviation Terminal.

These reforms, the minister explained, are particularly timely as airports prepare for the busy end-of-year travel season, characterised by increased passenger volumes.

As part of the new measures, the Department of State Services (DSS) and Immigration officers will now work collaboratively at integrated checkpoints. This change eliminates redundant screening processes for outbound travellers, significantly reducing delays.

Customs officials will also relocate to Aviation Security (AVSEC) screening points, optimising currency declaration procedures while maintaining regulatory compliance.

Arriving passengers will undergo secondary screening in dedicated profiling rooms located at Terminals 1 and 2. These rooms will display real-time information about the officers on duty, including their names, agencies, and contact details, to promote transparency during search procedures.

National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) personnel will support AVSEC officers at screening points and conduct roving checks in arrival halls, redefining roles for improved security oversight.

A mobile court will be established at the airport to facilitate swift prosecution of offenders, particularly touts and individuals engaging in illegal activities. To further enhance the passenger experience, secure meet-and-greet zones will be designated for visitors awaiting arrivals.

Minister Keyamo has reiterated that misconduct of any form would no longer be tolerated within the airport premises and ordered that Bureau de Change operators and car hire staff found loitering or engaging in unauthorised activities will face immediate prosecution and non-compliant businesses risk suspension or revocation of their operating licenses, ensuring strict adherence to operational guidelines.

Additional improvements include enhanced lighting and signage to improve visibility and navigation across the airport environment.

Prominent signs will enforce the three-minute pickup rule, while free Wi-Fi services will be promoted within the terminals to provide greater convenience for travellers.

The minister promised that a timed parking system will replace the current setup, at the General Aviation Terminal, with charges applied for both short-term and long-term parking.

He added that to prevent congestion, the number of car hire vehicles allowed in the parking zone will be limited and remarked that sustained enforcement actions will eradicate touting and harassment by drivers, ensuring a safer and more organised environment for passengers.

The minister also reiterated the government’s commitment to aligning Nigeria’s airports with global standards.  “The federal government is committed to ensuring our airports operate at the highest standards of security, service delivery, and transparency. These reforms are a critical step toward transforming the passenger experience and addressing systemic challenges.

“I commend FAAN for its proactive leadership in implementing these measures and assure Nigerians of the government’s continued support in advancing the aviation sector,” he stated.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria has also urged stakeholders, airport users, and the public to cooperate with Operation Air Clean, telling them that this initiative represents a significant milestone in building safer, more efficient, and passenger-friendly airports across the country.

Chinedu Eze

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